Great op-ed by David Hazony in the Forward to read as we begin to prepare for Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut this week.
Memo to American Jews: Learn Hebrew – Forward.com
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I think Hazony has some great points and that Hebrew does really need to serve as a bridge between Israeli and Diaspora Jews, ie Diaspora Jews should learn Hebrew. Whether this is done using easy to read Hebrew newspapers like Yanshuf and Bereshit or by watching Israeli movies, it is critical that they at least become better acquainted with the language!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely! Speaking the language, or at least being comfortable enough with it, opens the doors to fully experiencing and immersing oneself into a culture. The analogy to French/France was right on point. I think it becomes even more important when you translate it to the Jewish universe that has so many more complexities. As a personal example, I always felt at a disadvantage because I do not speak Hebrew, and thus cannot fully appreciate the beauty of our services, of our prayers and blessings. I feel I am missing the last connection that makes the soul reverberate in response to a prayer, when the words of the prayer truly resonate within oneself. How could I experience this if I do not speak and thus do not understand Hebrew? I “feel” the prayers when I read their English translation, but how much more beautiful would it be to skip the middle man and fully enjoy the original source? Hebrew lessons are top of my to-do list.
ReplyDeleteYour article about Hebrew language is really informative. I am beginner of learning Hebrew language . I have many useful resources , books, audio CD to learn language . I have taken course which is pimsleur conversational Hebrew method and i have achieved good command in Hebrew language.
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