Hebrew is not an easy language for native English speakers to learn, but it is also not the hardest. As rated by the Foreign Service Institute, a U.S. government agency which trains diplomatic personnel, Hebrew was rated 3 out of a high level of 4 in terms of difficulty. Languages that rated more difficult than Hebrew included Chinese, Japanese, and Arabic. So, you can be encouraged that although it is indeed a difficult language to learn, there are languages that are even harder!
Before delving into hours of study and diligent work, let's consider why one should learn Hebrew, and in particular Biblical Hebrew. Learning the original languages of the Bible (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) are invaluable tools to studying the Scriptures. While most English versions of the Bible do a very good job of translating the Scriptures, it is still very helpful to be able to read the Bible in its original form. Knowing Hebrew will make many Bible reference tools (like interlinears, lexicons, etc.) more accessible to you and enrich your personal study of the Scriptures. Knowing the Hebrew roots of words (all Hebrew words have roots) can also provide fascinating word studies.
There is also something exciting about learning the language spoken by Abraham, David, and Isaiah. Jesus and His disciples all read Hebrew and knew the Old Testament Scriptures in their original language.
As you become more adept in Hebrew, I think that it is appropriate to remember the words of the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 8:1, "Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies." Let's remember that knowing Hebrew is not a badge of spirituality. We should not lord it over others or flaunt our abilities to others. Knowing Hebrew will not make you a faultless interpreter of the Scriptures or even necessarily a better minister of the Word. Our goal in life and ministry should still be love from a pure heart (I Timothy 1:15.) Love for God and love for others should characterize our lives rather than knowledge and ability.
As you endeavor to learn this wonderful language, be encouraged. Don't expect instant fluency. Some people have a gift for learning new languages, and others struggle through the process. It will take time and diligence on your part, but it can be done! Ask God to give you grace and wisdom in this task as you earnestly seek Him.
