about me

This class I took was held in a school, as a school class: there was a teacher, wearing a suit, there was a large blackboard with lots of chalk and dozens of little tables where the students were sitting scared, like children, even though we were already adults. Back then I learned the basics of the Hebrew language and I realised that this experience could be nicer and more efficient. Later, I attended other classes, which I never completed, for various reasons - either the teachers were going back to Israel (they were Israeli youth studying in Romania), or I was simply not able to pick up anything (the class didn't have a structure).

Eventually, I had a chance to study Hebrew in a very structured, academic manner, part of my Masters' degree at the Jewish Theological Seminary from New York. Yeah, I can't believe it either, the chance I had! In this structure I was able to improve my knowledge of the Jewish culture and religion and Hebrew language. I realised that the style of teaching is essential for quality learning to take place. I understood that the teacher (me) is not as important as the student, who receives the information. That's when I realised that I am a guide, the one who opens the door towards a fascinating world!

In 2008, I emigrated to Israel. I was very worried because, even though I had studied Hebrew quite well, I was not able to communicate in this language! I knew the grammar rules, I could read quite well, I could understand pretty well what was said around me, but... when I had to open my mouth and speak, I would panic! All these years, I hadn't trained my ability to speak Hebrew, because none of my teachers thought I might need it... I figured that if someone asks me if I know a foreign language, they don't care if I can explain the rule of verb conjugation. They care if I can speak and understand that language. 

During the five years I lived in Israel, I was happy to learn to speak this language, to use it gladly and naturally. I learned a lot from everybody, any chance I got! Everywhere I turned, there was a chance to learn something new. I admit, it's not polite, but I used to listen to many of the conversations I heard around me in the bus(monit sherut, in Hebew)on my way to and back from work. Clearly, I wasn't interested in the stories that these loud ladies were telling on the phone, but how they combined the words, how the verbs and nouns matched - an entire "live" grammar lesson! Now I find it amusing to tell that I learned Hebrew "by ear", but all I ever did was "drown" in this language and live with it. 

So, basically, this is my approach to teaching Hebrew: I will help you understand the letters of the alphabet, understand how the words are combined into sentences and speak the language so you can understand and be understood by others. It's a very simplified method, down to the essence of it. Language is a tool which helps us navigate this world and it should not become a burden. 

All my other "creations" which you can find on this website are intended to help you learn Hebrew and Jewish culture, in a fun way. When you buy a calendar, for instance, and you display it on a wall at home or in your office, you can learn about the way we divide the Jewish year, you will read a Hebrew text each month, with its translation and phonetics. You may also learn about Jewish holidays. As a matter of fact, with any of the products I create, my intention is to get you closer to the Jewish soul, to bring the world closer and live peacefully, without any negative feelings. 

Thank you for being here and I hope that we can do wonderful things together!