Fundamentals of Aramaic grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. CAMS 420 Introductory Targumic Aramaic (3) The aim of CAMS 420 is to introduce students to the fundamentals of Targumic Aramaic as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Targumic Aramaic, is the dialect used by Jews in the last few centuries BCE in their translations of the Bible into Aramaic. Targumic Aramaic texts remain vital within Judaism and Biblical study. This course focuses primarily on the morphology and syntax of Aramaic. Drills on each point of grammar, as well as translation of sentences from Aramaic to English and English to Aramaic, and brief passages taken from the native texts are the basis of the student’s homework throughout the semester. By the end of the semester, the students will be prepared to read short, unmodified passages of actual Aramaic. The course will focus primarily on reading and writing, though students will read aloud in class regularly in order to ensure correct pronunciation and understanding. CAMS will prepare students to work with Aramaic in related courses in CAMS, in particular those dealing with other Aramaic dialects, the Bible, and other related ancient languages. The course goals, in addition to providing the students a basic understanding of the history of the Aramaic literary tradition. The primary focus will be on mastering paradigms and syntax, but the students will also be introduced to real Targumic Aramaic texts, which are of great importance to understanding the history of Biblical textual transmission.
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