A lot of people ask me what I recommend for learning Biblical Hebrew or Greek. Some are just looking for ways to enhance their personal Bible study. Others are serious students who are looking for a good program for long term study. This article is for the latter audience. I’ve got news that will affect […]
Those Spicy, Savory Hebrew Words
Have you noticed the latest food trend? Growing numbers of people are into artisanal foods. They love organic cheeses and heirloom vegetables, farmer’s markets and food co-ops. They want to eat slow food, not fast food. It takes more time and effort, but it’s worth it, they say. You know what? I’m into artisanal Bible […]
Speaking is Painting: Why No Translation Can Be “Perfect”
Many of us are frustrated by why no one seems to be able to come up with one perfect English Bible translation. Why are there so many versions? Why can’t we just have one final, best English translation? A major reason is because of one aspect of language that most of us don’t appreciate. When […]
Learning to Think in Hebrew
I recently told you about some of the interesting Norwegian words I grew up saying, like “uff-da” and “vasakope.” As my immigrant ancestors were learning English, they hung on to words in their mother tongue that did a better job of expressing what they meant to say. My relatives weren’t the only ones doing this. […]
Uff-da, Sputten & Vasakope: Words without Equal
I’ve been thinking about Hebrew words and language lately, and analyzing the words that I use. I’ve noticed that my vocabulary is peppered with words from other languages. Many of my unusual words come from my Norwegian ancestors. For instance, I grew up saying uff-da. Many have seen “uff-da” on bumper-stickers and refrigerator magnets, but I […]
A Jewish Translation Debate, Finally
A few months ago I wrote an article called, “Translation Debates – A Jewish View.” I noted that Christians often get into heated debates over translations. Many have sparred over the “KJV-only debate” and the inclusive language in the TNIV. Surprisingly, I’ve almost never heard this kind of discussion among Jews. The reason why is […]