My path through an adult bar mitzvah.
My path through an adult bar mitzvah.
Apps
Apps
DuoLingo Hebrew: This was the initial wedge that got me started. DuoLingo was great for learning the alphabet, and some basic vocabulary.
DuoLingo Hebrew: This was the initial wedge that got me started. DuoLingo was great for learning the alphabet, and some basic vocabulary.
Language Schools
Language Schools
Ulpanim (singular ulpan) are Israeli language schools meant for new immigrants (olim). Some are private, some are run by the state. You can spend a week, or months, or years at ulpan, but I recommend a shorter trip to a private ulpan if you have the time and resources and aren't making aliyah (immigrating to Israel).
Ulpanim (singular ulpan) are Israeli language schools meant for new immigrants (olim). Some are private, some are run by the state. You can spend a week, or months, or years at ulpan, but I recommend a shorter trip to a private ulpan if you have the time and resources and aren't making aliyah (immigrating to Israel).
Books
Books
Shalom Hebrew [book]: DuoLingo and the ulpanim teach in the Israeli style, which is without the vowels (nikudot). The vowels are a big part of diaspora education and the liturgy, but are not widely used after early childhood in Israel. This book is a good way to solidify your knowledge of the alphabet, and the vowels. Work through this one with a tutor.
Shalom Hebrew [book]: DuoLingo and the ulpanim teach in the Israeli style, which is without the vowels (nikudot). The vowels are a big part of diaspora education and the liturgy, but are not widely used after early childhood in Israel. This book is a good way to solidify your knowledge of the alphabet, and the vowels. Work through this one with a tutor.
"Hineni" Prayerbook Hebrew for Adults [book]: I have just started working through this book. Jewish prayer services are very formulaic, and this book goes through each of the prayers you will encounter. Work throught this one with a tutor.
"Hineni" Prayerbook Hebrew for Adults [book]: I have just started working through this book. Jewish prayer services are very formulaic, and this book goes through each of the prayers you will encounter. Work throught this one with a tutor.
History courses
History courses
Podcasts:
Podcasts:
- right of center
- left of center
- Israel version of 'This America Life'
- Other
Local Community
Local Community
I also recommend finding a Jewish community that you can be a part of, and that might also offer classes or gatherings. Look for a local JCC, or a local synagogue. Pro-tip: If you have a lot of anxiety around missing Hebrew or liturgical knowledge, try to find a session on Zoom first. It allows you to turn off your camera, and take a break if you get overwhelmed.
I also recommend finding a Jewish community that you can be a part of, and that might also offer classes or gatherings. Look for a local JCC, or a local synagogue. Pro-tip: If you have a lot of anxiety around missing Hebrew or liturgical knowledge, try to find a session on Zoom first. It allows you to turn off your camera, and take a break if you get overwhelmed.
When you are ready, I recommend hiring a Hebrew tutor over Zoom or at your local synagogue to prepare for your aliyah (invitation to the podium in front of a Jewish service at your shul.)
When you are ready, I recommend hiring a Hebrew tutor over Zoom or at your local synagogue to prepare for your aliyah (invitation to the podium in front of a Jewish service at your shul.)
Feel free to reach out if you want to chat. sqh@me.com
