Learn Syriac Easily
A straightforward guide to mastering the Syriac language
Unlock the beauty of the Syriac language with ease and confidence.
What you'll learn
- Fundamentals of Syriac grammar
- Essential vocabulary for everyday conversation
- Reading and writing in Syriac script
- Cultural context and historical significance
- Listening comprehension through practical exercises
- Effective learning strategies for language retention
About this book
Learn Syriac Easily is designed for anyone looking to dive into the rich history and culture of the Syriac language. This book simplifies the learning process, making it accessible for beginners and those wishing to refresh their skills.
With clear explanations, engaging exercises, and practical examples, this book not only teaches you the language but also immerses you in its cultural context. Whether for personal interest, academic study, or professional development, this guide is an essential resource for mastering Syriac.
Who this book is for
- Language enthusiasts
- Students of Semitic languages
- Cultural historians
- Travelers to Syriac-speaking regions
- Individuals seeking personal enrichment
Why read this book
- User-friendly approach for beginners
- Rich cultural insights alongside language learning
- Practical exercises to reinforce skills
- Comprehensive coverage of grammar and vocabulary
About the language
Syriac is a dialect of Aramaic, a Semitic language closely related to Arabic. It flourished in the Levant and Mesopotamia and today is used in the liturgy of many Syriac churches. About half a million to one million people speak related modern Aramaic varieties.
Where it is spoken
Syria, Iraq, Türkiye, Lebanon
Writing system
Written in the Syriac alphabet of 22 letters, from right to left.
Quick facts
- Literary Syriac arose in the city of Edessa, today Urfa in Turkey, in the first centuries AD.
- The Syriac alphabet has three main styles: Estrangela, Serto and Eastern.
- In the Abbasid era, Syriac scholars such as Hunayn ibn Ishaq translated many Greek works into Arabic.
- The Syriac and Arabic alphabets share an Aramaic origin, so many letter names and their order are similar.
Why learn it
- Read religious texts and ancient Syriac manuscripts in the original.
- Study the history of the Levant and Iraq and of translation into Arabic.
- Understand the origin of many Arabic words that came from Aramaic and Syriac.
Words shared with Arabic
- تلميذ (tilmidh) — Arabic for pupil, from Syriac talmidha with the same meaning.
- ناطور (natur) — Arabic for guard, from Aramaic natora.
- قسيس (qissis) — Arabic for priest, from Syriac qashisha, meaning elder or priest.
- شماس (shammas) — Arabic for deacon, from Syriac shammasha, meaning servant.
- ملكوت (malakut) — Arabic for kingdom, from Aramaic malkuta.
Comes with the book: the «Learn and Speak Easily» app
The book teaches you the word; the app trains you to say it. Open the app with your easyT account and practise every word and phrase in the book out loud.
1,933 words and phrases to practise in this book
Hear the right pronunciation
Every word and phrase in the book, spoken clearly, at normal speed or slowly.
Test yourself on every sign
The app shows a sign and asks for its meaning or its sound; pick the right answer out of 4.
The book's own chapters
Same chapters in the same order, with the word, its pronunciation in Arabic letters, its meaning and the book page.
A quiz after every chapter
Quick questions on what you learned; the app keeps your best score and your progress per chapter.
App details
- Free for everyone who bought the book, printed or digital
- Every language is open to Premium subscribers
- Sign in with your easyT account
- Works offline after a language is opened once
- Checking runs on your phone — your voice is never recorded or stored
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