3 reasons why every Christian should learn a biblical language

A basic language course on Hebrew or Greek can transform your understanding of scripture and ultimately the world, says Dr Jonathan Rowlands

Why bother with biblical languages? 

I’ve had the joy and privilege of teaching biblical languages – New Testament Greek and Old Testament Hebrew – for a few years now, both in a University setting and in a Church of England theological college. I’ve seen countless students from a variety of background study either Greek or Hebrew (or both!) for a variety of reasons. 

Would you like to know the one thing I’ve never heard a single student say? “I regret learning biblical languages.” It simply doesn’t happen. Every single student who studies biblical languages finds it deeply rewarding and is always glad they’ve done so. Some may find it harder than others – more on this shortly – but the rewards are always clear and tangible.  

And yet, whereas Jewish and Islamic traditions routinely require at least some engagement with Hebrew and Arabic respectively, I think it’s fair to say that the vast majority of Christians don’t engage with biblical languages at even a basic level. This is a real shame because