Biblical Hebrew

Pearson Edexcel

GCSE

Specification: 1BH0

The PEARSON-EDEXCEL GCSE Biblical Hebrew specification covers 7 topics with 41 learning objectives (1BH0). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

Starting Pearson Edexcel GCSE Biblical Hebrew this term? The whole specification is below, unit by unit.

This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

Topics

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

Ready to practise?

AI-powered quizzes tailored to your specification

Start free

Key Features

Master key concepts
Develop exam technique
Apply knowledge effectively

About Pearson Edexcel GCSE Biblical Hebrew

The Pearson Edexcel GCSE in Biblical Hebrew introduces students to the language of the Hebrew Bible, focusing on the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax needed to read and understand selected passages from the Tanakh. You will study core texts such as Genesis, Exodus, and the Psalms, exploring their literary, historical, and religious significance within Jewish tradition and beyond.

The specification is structured around three main areas: language skills (translation and comprehension), set text study (detailed analysis of prescribed passages), and cultural and religious context. This balanced approach helps you develop both linguistic proficiency and a deeper appreciation of the texts' meaning and impact.

Assessment Structure

The Pearson Edexcel GCSE in Biblical Hebrew is assessed through two written examinations, each worth 50% of the final grade. Paper 1 (Language) tests translation and comprehension of unseen biblical Hebrew passages, while Paper 2 (Literature and Culture) assesses your knowledge of set texts and their historical and religious context. Both papers are available at Foundation and Higher tiers, with a total of 200 marks across the qualification.

Why Choose Pearson Edexcel?

Pearson Edexcel offers a clear and well-structured specification with a dedicated focus on biblical Hebrew, making it ideal for students who want to engage directly with original scriptural texts.
The exam board provides a wide range of support materials, including vocabulary lists, past papers, and mark schemes, which are easily accessible for both students and teachers.
Edexcel's assessment includes a balanced mix of language and literature, allowing students to demonstrate both translation skills and cultural understanding in a single qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Specification Topics

7 topics

Component 1: Language - Compulsory content: Translation from Biblical Hebrew to English

accurately translate unseen material into idiomatic English., Students also need to develop their linguistic competence through the translation of unseen Biblical Hebrew passages., demonstrate knowledge of the vocabulary in Appendix 1 +2 more

5 objectives5 subtopics

Component 2: Literature - Study of the set texts

Students should acquire detailed knowledge and understanding of each set text and be able to select relevant points in order to compare and contrast features of content and/or literary style., Students must be able to translate the set texts into idiomatic English, which accurately transfers the meaning of the Biblical Hebrew, while showing an awareness of its morphology and syntax., Background information about events, characters, places and people, where relevant for a complete understanding of the themes and storyline. +7 more

10 objectives10 subtopics

Component 1: Language - Skills

Students need to develop their knowledge of Biblical Hebrew vocabulary and linguistic structures through reading and studying a range of unseen narrative texts in Biblical Hebrew., Students will develop their knowledge and understanding through the study of vocabulary and grammatical structures, using this knowledge to understand the meaning of unseen passages of Biblical Hebrew., show understanding of grammatical structures of Biblical Hebrew +4 more

7 objectives7 subtopics

Component 2: Literature - Skills

This component is designed to develop students’ exploration of text and their ability to analyse and evaluate, and also comppare and contrast, ancient Biblical Hebrew literature through the study of two set texts., translate extracts from the set texts into English., The purpose of studying this component is for students to be able to develop a thorough appreciation of Biblical Hebrew literature. +4 more

7 objectives7 subtopics

Component 1: Language - Optional content

show an understanding of the grammar listed in Appendix 2 and terms listed in Appendix 3, developing knowledge and understanding of the morphology and syntax of Biblical Hebrew (i.e. grammatical structures), by developing their ability to translate short sentences from English into pointed (vocalised) Biblical Hebrew. +2 more

5 objectives5 subtopics

Component 1: Language - Compulsory content: Comprehension

processing more complex information to make meaning by deducing and inferring., demonstrating an understanding of unseen Biblical Hebrew, including an understanding of individual words, phrases or sentences, identifying the overall message, key points and details in the passage in relation to words, phrases and sentences +1 more

4 objectives4 subtopics

Assessment Objectives

demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the language 50, demonstrate knowledge and understanding of literature and/or other ancient sources* 25, analyse, evaluate and respond to literature and/or other ancient sources.* 25

3 objectives3 subtopics

Ready to master Biblical Hebrew?

Start practising with AI-powered quizzes tailored to your Pearson Edexcel GCSE specification.