Choosing Between Biblical Hebrew and Koine Greek: A Comprehensive Guide for Biblical Scholars

For those embarking on the journey to deepen their understanding of the Bible, deciding whether to begin with biblical Hebrew or Koine Greek can be a daunting task. While both languages are essential for a comprehensive study of the Old and New Testaments, they offer unique advantages and contexts depending on one's theological background and scholarly interests.

Understanding the Context of Biblical Languages

Biblical languages, particularly biblical Hebrew and Koine Greek, hold significant importance in the study of the Old and New Testament scriptures. While some individuals may choose one over the other based on their specific theological affiliations, others might find a comparative approach more beneficial. In this article, we explore the reasoning behind the selection of biblical Hebrew or Koine Greek, based on the context of the Orthodox Church, Catholicism, and Protestantism.

Orthodox Christians and Koine Greek

For Orthodox Christians, Koine Greek is the preferred choice. This is primarily due to the authoritative Old Testament edition of the Orthodox Church, the Septuaginta (LXX), which is written in Koine Greek. The Orthodox tradition values this text as a crucial part of their biblical canon and divine services, further emphasizing the importance of comprehending the LXX. In contrast, Catholic and Protestant scholars generally read the Old Testament in Hebrew due to its original language of composition.

Personal Experience and Teaching from a Greek Perspective

I, as a long-standing teacher of Greek for the past 25 years, offer a perspective that might resonate with many. Greek, with its unique structure and vocabulary, has often been found to be a more straightforward language to learn compared to Hebrew, though this experience may vary based on individual aptitude and background. One of the primary advantages of beginning with Greek is the ability to study the Septuaginta, the Greek version of the Old Testament used by many New Testament authors. This can provide a deeper understanding of the original texts and the linguistic and theological nuances present in the writings of the apostles.

Greek also serves as an excellent introduction to language learning, particularly in the context of New Testament studies. For those whose English grammar might be less robust, a book like "English Grammar to Ace New Testament Greek" (shameless plug) can be particularly helpful, providing a solid foundation in the linguistic concepts that are crucial for understanding the New Testament.

Advantages of Learning Greek

Moreover, learning Greek opens the doors to the realm of Textual Criticism, a field of study that is invaluable for those interested in the textual variations and editorial decisions behind the biblical texts. While Hebrew Textual Criticism is also important, the number of manuscripts and textual variants for the Greek New Testament is significantly greater, making it a more comprehensive study.

It is also worth noting that more resources are available for the student of NT Greek than for those studying Hebrew. This abundance of aids can significantly enhance the learning experience and deepen one's understanding of the biblical texts.

Benefits of Live Instruction

Regardless of which language one chooses to study, taking a class from a live teacher is highly recommended. Whether the class is offered in person or through a platform like Zoom, the presence of an instructor can provide immediate answers to questions, facilitating a more effective learning process. Moreover, participating in a community of fellow students can be an immense support, helping to counteract discouragement and providing mutual encouragement. While I personally prefer classroom instruction, recognizing the constraints of many students, I acknowledge the value of online or virtual classrooms as well.

Are These Languages Really Necessary?

While the ability to read biblical languages can greatly enhance understanding and appreciation of the scriptures, it is not a requirement to fully grasp the Bible. Thanksgivings, benedictions, and prayers can be understood through various means, and there are many excellent interlinear sources freely available online that can serve as valuable aids for those not inclined to undertake the journey of language study.

Conclusion

Regardless of the choice of language, the key is to take a class from a live teacher. This teacher can provide the necessary support, guidance, and community that are invaluable during the learning journey. Learning biblical languages, whether Hebrew or Greek, can greatly enrich one's understanding of the biblical texts and provide a deeper connection to the scriptures. While it might be challenging at times, the rewards are immeasurable, contributing to a lifelong journey of growth and understanding.