Hebrew Studies in Wittenberg (1502-1813): From Lingua Sacra to Semitic Studies.

Abstract The beginnings of the study of the Hebrew language in Wittenberg go back to the very first years of the university's establishment and are associated with the initiatives of several scholars dealing with humanistic studies at the time. Through developing the study in three ancient languages, in keeping with the ideal of a complete humanistic erudition, Wittenberg perceived an opportunity to carve a niche of excellence for itself vis-à-vis the older universities. By introducing instruction in Hebrew along with Greek and Latin, the newly founded Leucorea sought to distinguish itself as a model for all other universities in Germany. The article traces the important steps of the history of the study of Hebrew language in Wittenberg among and outside of the theological faculty mentioning the curricula of its most famous teachers and professors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]