Hebrew University and eTeacher Group Offer Aramaic Language via Online Program

JERUSALEM & TEL AVIV, Israel--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and eTeacher Group announced the addition of Aramaic to its unique offering for students around the world to participate in its joint Biblical Hebrew program.

“The Hebrew University of Jerusalem has a long and famous tradition for Aramaic research and teaching”

The new program builds upon the success of the Biblical Hebrew program introduced in 2007 and which now boasts students from around the world including North America, South America, Asia, Australia and Europe.

The 14 week course focuses on reading Aramaic-based texts in the Old Testament more specifically examining the Aramaic prophecies of Daniel and the sections of the book of Ezra.

The Aramaic course is being offered on two levels and begins in May 2011; it is available to students 18 and above who know the Hebrew alphabet.

Like its Biblical Hebrew counterpart, Aramaic students learn in virtual classes conducted via live video conferencing from anywhere in the world. A certified instructor presents lesson materials via a fully-interactive multimedia application running on each student’s computer screen through which students can speak with the teacher and other class members. Course materials include a blend of classic and online content.

Hebrew University, in collaboration with eTeacher, is offering these courses for academic credit points. In accordance with the University’s academic requirements, the program includes obligatory attendance, paper submissions and examinations.

Students interested in the language of prophecy are well served by immersing themselves in Biblical Aramaic, says Dr. Ohad Cohen, director of the online Biblical Hebrew program at the Hebrew University and eTeacher. “The Books of Daniel and Ezra can deeper students' understanding of Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic, as well as the historical and cultural background of the Bible.” “The Hebrew University of Jerusalem has a long and famous tradition for Aramaic research and teaching,” Dr. Cohen continued, “and by using this traditional knowledge together with new technological platforms from eTeacher, this course is a unique opportunity to further students’ reading and understanding of Biblical languages.”

The Study of Biblical Aramaic at the Hebrew University

The Hebrew University is a well known world center for the study of the Bible and the Semitic linguistics. In the last two generations this center has formulated new methods for the research and teaching of these languages. The Hebrew University attracts researchers all over the world interested in these fields. Its new program is based on this long history of research of these fields and the methods produced to investigate and teach them.

About eTeacher

eTeacher, the world's foremost online language academy, was established in 2000. The hallmarks of its language courses are live online instruction, flexible hours, and the convenience of learning from home or office. Since 2001, thousands of eTeacher graduates, from over a hundred countries, have acquired a new language. eTeacher is a portfolio company of Pamoja Capital, a Swiss private investment firm that believes in creating value through long-term, socially responsible global investments in various fields, including education.