Turning Jordan

There’s obviously a lot one could write concerning Biblical Hebrew syntax.  I’m only concerned with providing some resources that may help you along the way.  I’ll give suggestions for more study in books, links to online articles, and occasionally put up something I’ve written.  Hopefully you will find this helpful.

Grammar Textbooks

Syntax Textbooks

	“An Introduction to Biblical Hebrew Syntax” by Bruce Waltke and M. O’ConnorEisenbrauns, 1990 ISBN: 0931464315 This introduction is becoming a standard reference for syntax.  Though is has not surpassed GKC in its density, it thoroughly presents the exegetical nuances of Biblical Hebrew.  For those interested in the verb system, WOC offers a leading view of the aspectual approach.
	“Williams’ Hebrew Syntax” by Ronald J. Williams, revised (greatly!) by John C. Beckman University of Toronto Press, 3rd edition, 2007 ISBN: 0802094295Not only does Beckman update Williams’ important outline, but he also provides references to each element of Hebrew syntax in several other major reference grammars. The layout from the previous outline changes greatly in this revised edition, and Beckman did a great service for us.
	“A Guide to Biblical Hebrew Syntax” by Bill T. Arnold and John H. Choi Cambridge University Press, 2003 ISBN: 0521533481This is sort of an in-between version of WOC and William’s Revised Edition. It provides a brief synopsis of each element of Hebrew syntax (like Williams), but also does so in a thorough manner (like WOC).
	“Gesenius’ Hebrew Grammar” by Gesenius, Kautzsch, and Cowley SOFT: Dover Publications, 2006 (0486443442) HARD: Oxford, 2nd Edition, 1922 (0198154062)One of the most comprehensive books on the Hebrew language, it covers all aspects, including word roots and derivatives, prefixes and suffixes, syntax and pronunciation. Filled with features, like historical background on the Hebrew language and grammar, this is an indispensable resource for the study of ancient languages and Biblical texts

Books on Discourse Grammar
- Longacre, “Joseph”
- Niccacci, “Syntax of the Verb”
- Sailhamer, Class Notes – not sure how you’ll get these, but if you get the chance, grab them!
- Bergen, “Biblical Hebrew and Discourse Grammar”
- “Handbook” Series by Baker
- van Wolde, “Narrative Syntax”

Books on Hebrew Poetry
- Alter, “Art of Biblical Poetry”
- Berlin, “Dynamics of Biblical Parallelism”
- Fokkelman, “Reading Biblical Poetry”
- Lunn, “Word-Order Variation
- Watson, “Classical Hebrew Poetry”