Many people ask how was the Bible read in Hebrew when the majority of people in ancient Israel could not read. It is an interesting question, as not everyone was literate. To answer how was the Bible read in Hebrew one needs to explore how many people could read in ancient Israel. In ancient Israel only 3% of Jewish people could read. This seems quite low, but for those days it was high.
There is evidence to show that the reading levels in ancient Israel was quite high. Indeed many parents wanted their children to know how was the bible read in Hebrew. An article by Steven Law, in 2020, talks about archaeological findings, such as ink wells. He states that this indicates how important reading was, especially amongst people at the time.
Teaching children how was the bible read in Hebrew
The Torah (Jewish Bible) gives instructions to parents about the teaching children to know how to read. This famous sentence is found in Deuteronomy And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children … You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates indicates that knowing how was the bible read was so important.
Hebrew literacy today
For some people knowing how to read the Bible is extremely important. Reading the Bible in its original Hebrew text provides an understanding of the meaning and context of the text. One can also learn about the religious and cultural history of the world.
Reading the Bible in Hebrew helps the reader get a deeper understanding of ancient history and culture. The Bible provides an understanding of the beliefs and practices of the ancient Hebrew people. As well as how their experiences can shape their understanding the world around them.
