Most importantly, my teaching is centered on your needs and goals. When you read the testimonials at the end of this page, words such as “patient,” “competent,” “knowledgeable,” and “experienced” often stand out. Over the years, I have formed many lasting friendships with my wonderful students. At times, I feel they have taught me just as much as I have taught them. Their perspectives on scripture have inspired me, and together we have found meaningful ways to read the Hebrew Bible through our often diverse viewpoints.
Understanding the Bible begins with a solid foundation in the study of the Hebrew language. I have a natural passion for languages and linguistics and speak three languages fluently: German, English, and Modern Israeli Hebrew. My years of studying Semitic languages and linguistics were among the most fulfilling of my life, and earning my M.A. marked a bittersweet conclusion to my time at university.
Now, it is time for us to get to know each other. I offer a free 30-minute introductory meeting where you can ask any questions related to Biblical Hebrew.
Materials for Private Tutorials and Group Courses
I have prepared extensive notes on various biblical books, texts, as well as different topics. Contact me to talk about your study preferences.
Biblical Books
- Book of Ecclesiastes (Qohelet)
- Book of Ruth
- Book of Jonah
- Book of Malachi
- Book of Daniel (Hebrew and Aramaic)
- Book of Ezra (Hebrew and Aramaic)
Psalms and Praise
- Psalms of Praise (27, 84, 100, 117, 145)
- Story of David and Bathsheba (2 Sam 11)
- Hannah’s Prayer and Prose Introduction (1 Sam)
- Priestly Blessing (Num 6:22-27)
Different Topics
- Genesis 1 and 2 (Literalist’s View, Scientist’s View, Biblical Commentator’s View)
- Cantillations Marks (Accents)
- Ketiv and Qere
- How to use a Biblical Hebrew Lexicon
- How to use a Biblical Hebrew Reference Grammar
- The Meaning of the word נֶפֶשׁ (It does NOT mean “soul”)
How it works
- We meet once a week
- We meet on Zoom
- Every Meeting is recorded
- The recording are available shortly after the meeting
Michal’s Academic and Teaching Background:
- MA in Semitic Languages (Biblical Hebrew, Classical Arabic, Ge’ez, Aramaic, Syriac)
- Over 15 years of experience in teaching different levels of Biblical Hebrew to academic and non-academic students (Hebrew University through eTeacher and the Israel Institute of Biblical Languages).
- Online Course Creator of Different Topics on Biblical Hebrew
- Facebook Group Admin: Biblical Hebrew Study Group
- YouTube channel: BiblicalHebrewStudy
Thank you for a very enjoyable, stimulating, thought provoking, and insightful course we have just finished with reading the Book of Jonah. It was also most beneficial to my road of learning Biblical Hebrew with another of the Hebrew through the Bible Courses you offer.
Kenny B.
Thank you for teaching me how to use a good Hebrew and English Lexicon and referencing a good book on A Grammar of Biblical Hebrew.
Linda W.
The course brings to light all sorts of insights into the text of Genesis, which provokes some really interesting discussions. You have been a brilliant teacher – always clear and concise, with plenty of humour!
Phillip K.
Barry S.
Easy to follow, very well explained and always open to questions!
Esther M.
It is a satisfaction to learn Biblical Hebrew with Michal Shmuel! I love the lessons, they are interactive, interesting and well organized! I hope to finish my studies well. God bless You, God bless Israel!
Lazlo S.
Learning is new non-native language in a conventional course is tough enough, but doing it online seems tougher. I’m not linguistically gifted and Biblical Hebrew is a tough language to pickup, but Michal makes extra efforts to help us and gentle nudge us to read and try during classes. I’m doing ok in the course, and Michal is very encouraging.
Chee Liang
Michal has a wealth of knowledge. Her guidance makes learning the subject easier. Her approach gives the students confidence in approaching the subject and inspiration to study more.
Izelle I.
The course is richly “loaded” with language material, well structured, well accompanied with learning materials, and very skillfully and professionally taught by charming teacher, Michal Shmuel, who always managed to create a very pleasant and relaxed learning atmosphere in the classroom. (I shall miss her once the course is over!) Thank you all for this wonderful adventure!
Nada P.