Hebrew for Dummies [With CD]

The fun and easy way to start speaking Hebrew

One of the most amazing things about Hebrew is that, in less than a century, it has gone from an ancient language of prayer and ritual spoken by a few holy men to a modern language of sunbathing, dining, going to the movies, and countless other everyday activities, spoken by millions. Modern Hebrew is a beautiful language, but for a native English speaker, it can be tough wrapping your tongue around exotic expressions like "Ha'im Ayn Oogiyot?" ("What, no cookies?"). As with any language, the quickest way to master Hebrew basics is to immerse yourself in its sounds and rhythms. The next best thing to six months in Haifa, Hebrew For Dummies lets you do just that

Whether you want to communicate with your Israeli cousins, understand Jewish prayers and sacred literature, impress your Jewish in-laws, or you're planning a trip to Israel, this book/audio package can help. In no time, you'll:

• Master Hebrew sounds and rhythms
• Understand basic grammar and usage
• Get a handle on the Hebrew alphabet
• Make small talk and most everyday transactions
• Discover the basics of Hebrew blessings and prayer
• Gain insights into Hebrew culture and traditions

Each chapter of Hebrew For Dummies is organized around a specific set of activities--such as eating, traveling, shopping, and asking for directions--and gives you the lowdown on all the Hebrew you'll need to get by. Topics covered include:

• Eating, going shopping, having fun, sports, hobbies, talking on the phone, communicating around the office, and other everyday activities
• Hebrew for travelers, including transportation, hotels, money changing, asking directions, and handling emergencies
• Sacred Hebrew, including reading the Bible and prayer books, blessing formulas, sacred rites and services, and more

The enclosed audio CD lets you pick up Hebrew the easy way--through actual conversations. It features:

• Dialogues by native Hebrew speakers
• Answers to the Fun & Games activities in the book

The fun, easy way to master basic Hebrew, this book will quickly get you on track with the language skills you need to speak and read Hebrew like a native.

Author: Jill Suzanne Jacobs
Publisher: For Dummies
Published: 04/01/2003
Pages: 384
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 9.10h x 7.30w x 0.90d
ISBN: 9780764554896

About the Author

Jill Suzanne Jacobs, MA, is a writer, Jewish educator, and part of the editorial team of MyJewishLearningcom. She has taught and helped create course materials for Hebrew and Jewish studies classes.