Reviving Jewish identity: The power of modern Hebrew in today’s world
Amid rising global antisemitism and the enduring shadows of the Holocaust, the resurgence of Modern Hebrew serves as a beacon of light.
In a world where the echoes of history often shape our present, language stands as a powerful conduit for preserving culture and identity. For Jews worldwide, Modern Hebrew has emerged as more than just a means of communication; it’s a symbol of resilience, hope, and renewal.
Amid rising global antisemitism and the enduring shadows of the Holocaust, the resurgence of Modern Hebrew serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path of cultural connection and Jewish identity. And with the challenges facing the Jewish community today, the importance of preserving our heritage has never been more evident.
From the root
David Gordon is a student from New Jersey, currently volunteering in Israel. He embodies the spirit of connection to Hebrew culture and identity. In all the turmoil of war, David decided to contribute to Israel’s food security by volunteering at Ein HaBesor, a moshav near the Gaza Strip. His experiences highlight the cultural richness embedded within Hebrew language and the transformative power of immersive engagement.
At the heart of Hebrew lies a tapestry of stories and meanings, woven into every word and expression. A beautiful example is the root “NDV,” meaning “to donate,” and from this root emerges the word “מתנדב” (mitnadev), reflecting the essence of volunteering as a selfless act of giving. Through language, individuals like David discover the depth of connection to their heritage, transcending geographical boundaries and temporal constraints.
Alive with ingenuity
As David immerses himself in the agricultural landscape of Israel, he uncovers the linguistic nuances that mirror the nation’s innovation and resilience. From the term “חקלאי” (chaklai) for farmer, derived from the Aramaic “חקל” (chakel) meaning “field,” to the innovative irrigation technique of “טפטפות” (taftafot), Hebrew reflects Israel’s ingenuity and adaptability. 
David says, “Growing up in America, I was taught in Jewish day school that Hebrew word for farmer is איכר ikar. Although this might be true, I quickly learned that no one here uses that word. The preferred term is חקלאי chaklai, which comes from the Aramaic חקל chakel meaning “field.” So, farmers are literally “people of the field” or “fieldworkers.”
In fact in the midst of challenges, Hebrew offers a language of hope and optimism. The phrase “שנשמע בשורות טובות” (shenishmah besorot tovot), meaning “may we hear glad tidings,” encapsulates the enduring optimism of the Israeli spirit, a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty.
David says of his experience, “Coming here has also been an amazing cultural experience. I have met so many Israelis who have taught me many things. I have also learned a great deal of Hebrew that has opened a whole new world for me.”
A gateway to connection
For those unable to physically immerse themselves in Israel’s vibrant culture, there are gateways to connection and understanding. Through online courses, learners can set out on a journey of discovery, exploring the richness of Hebrew language and culture from anywhere in the world.
Founded on a legacy of 25 years of excellence, the Rosen School of Hebrew provides unparalleled opportunities to engage with Israeli culture and language, strengthening Jewish identity and fostering connections across borders.
Legacy of hope
Aharon Rosen’s legacy of resilience and hope is deeply intertwined with the spirit of the Rosen School of Hebrew. Immigrating to Northern Israel’s Moshav Kfar Gideon, Rosen’s journey as a teacher began with organizing Hebrew classes for new arrivals, a task he approached with passion and dedication.
Recognizing the challenges faced by adult learners, Rosen tailored his teaching methods to their needs, creating a multi-stage curriculum that became a cornerstone of Hebrew-language teaching. His innovative approach, rooted in empathy and understanding, earned him acclaim and paved the way for Hebrew education in Israel and beyond.
Unwavering dedication
Rosen’s commitment to excellence led to groundbreaking contributions in Hebrew language instruction. His acclaimed textbooks, including the Thousand Words series, revolutionized Hebrew tuition for immigrants and foreign students, earning him recognition as a leading educator in the field.
Rosen’s tireless pursuit of innovation, exemplified by his radio broadcasts and theoretical works, transformed the landscape of Hebrew teaching, shaping the foundations of language instruction for generations to come. Today, the Rosen School of Hebrew continues his legacy, embodying his spirit of resilience, hope, and unwavering dedication to excellence in education.
Our collective identity
As we navigate the complexities of our world, let us embrace the transformative power of language to preserve our heritage and strengthen our bonds as a global Jewish community.
Join us at the Rosen School of Hebrew and embark on a journey of rediscovery, where language becomes a bridge connecting past, present, and future. Together, let us celebrate the enduring legacy of Hebrew and its role in shaping our collective identity