whats the best way to learn HEBREW online?

Question

i want to learn hebrew so that I can be able to speak it, and I have heard that there are 2 diff. types of hebrew, the old style (BLOCK letters) and the modern script. I was wondering if anyone knew where I could learn online.

Answer 1

There are many free websites out there (just google "learn Hebrew"), but I know that Rosetta Stone is one of the bests. Also, I would recommend on buying a book, which is- to me- much more helpful.

There are several "types" of Hebrew, according to the time and area where they were spoken. There is the Archaic Hebrew, the Classic Hebrew, Sephardic Hebrew, Ashkenazi Hebrew, Tiberian Hebrew, Medieval Hebrew, Modern Hebrew etc...
You'll be glad to know that all these "Hebrews" are not very different, and most of the differences are in a matter of style.

There is only one "live" dialect, and this is the Israeli Hebrew/ Modern Hebrew. This is the official language of the state of Israel and I recommend on learning it.

As for the scripts: There are two different sets of letters- both are widely used in Israel.
"Dfuss" ("block letters"): the traditional script. The bible was written in this script, and it is used in formal documents, computer communicating, newspapers, books, and any other "formal" thing.
"Khtav" ("hand-writing"): This script was developed in Ashkenazi communities (basing on the "Dfuss"), and it is much more round and "flowing". It is used in informal documents such as personal letters, notebooks, or anything else that is not made for publication, but for personal use.

It is sort of like the difference between the cursive script in English and the "printed" letters.

http://www.omniglot.com/writing/hebrew.htm

Good luck! If you'll have any questions, do contact me...

Answer 2

Whenever I study a foreign language, I find it extremely helpful to buy a book. Online tutorials can only carry you so far; once you reach a certain level of depth, you'll be longing for a textbook that you can reference and study--something that provides ALL the information you need in a clear and straightforward manner. Lots of books come with audio recordings to help you with your pronunciation.

Once you have done some basic study, you should start looking for friends (either locally or on the net) that you can practice the language with. Don't expect them to teach you everything; most people aren't prepared to be teachers and usually aren't patient enough for that.

Learning a new writing system is very difficult, but it's an absolute must--don't neglect it. The ability to read and write will allow you to learn to speak more fluently and understand the language clearly.

Answer 3

Well, unless you are of Jewish culture, I doubt you will be able to learn online. You could go to a nearby bookstore of library to get a dictionary. My friend who is 100% hebrew by race has been studying for years with a teacher still doesnt have it all.

Answer 4

try torah.org