The Origins of Hebrew

The video explores the origins and development of the Hebrew language and alphabet. It begins with the Hebrew Bible and early inscriptions, highlighting the Proto-Canaanite script as a link between Canaanite and Hebrew. The Semitic language family is discussed, including Akkadian and Ugaritic. The role of scribes and literacy in ancient societies is examined, with evidence from archaeological finds. The video concludes with the evolution of the Hebrew alphabet from Proto-Sinaitic script, showing its influence on modern alphabets.

What is the primary language in which the Hebrew Bible is written?

What is the significance of the proto Canaanite alphabet in relation to Hebrew?

How did the alphabetic system used in Hebrew differ from cuneiform and hieroglyphics?

What are some of the major languages included in the Semitic language family?

What role did scribes play in ancient Israelite society?

What evidence suggests that literacy rates may have been higher in the Kingdom of Judah than previously thought?

What does the discovery of inscriptions at Tel Arad suggest about military literacy?

What is the Proto-Synetic alphabet and where was it discovered?

How did the writing of letters evolve over time in the context of the Hebrew alphabet?

Describe the relationship between the Proto-Synetic script and modern alphabets.