Ge'ez Language Course: Level I
This course provides a general introduction to the history of the Ge'ez language and its role in the tradition of the Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The course also covers the ten basic elements of Ge'ez, which are used to determine verb forms based on masculine or feminine, and singular or plural. In addition, the course goes through various parts of speech, such as nouns, prepositions, pronouns, verbs (including verb types and their characteristics), conjunctions, and adverbs. Finally, clauses (both main clauses and subordinate clauses) are introduced, as well as various sentence types, based on both structural and functional classification.
Learning objectives
Upon completion of the course, participants are expected (individually and collectively) to be able to:
- Explain how the Ge'ez language is connected to the Orthodox Tewahedo tradition by giving examples that show its importance within the faith community.;
- use the ten fundamental elements of Ge'ez in various contexts and collaborate with other participants to develop practical applications;
- analyse sentence structures by identifying main clauses and subordinate clauses, with examples connected to liturgical texts;
- break down Ge'ez sentences to show how they are structured and collaborate with others to understand difficult examples; and
- reflect on one's relationship with the Ge'ez language and describe how group-based learning has transformed their understanding of both the language and its significance for their cultural and spiritual identity.
Learning method
At Sankt Ignatios College, the overarching principle guiding learning is that all knowledge is intersubjective.
Knowledge is a dialogue that requires humility and empathy.
The course is based on collaborative and dialogic learning, where participants actively shape both their shared learning journey and the course itself. Content, materials, and methods are adapted in real-time based on the participants' needs, interests, and contributions. In addition to mastering the subject matter, a central goal is for each participant to become aware of how shared learning experiences and dialogue transform their thinking, practice, and identity. Through dialogue, storytelling, group discussions, joint reflection, creative expression, and collective exploration, participants develop an awareness of their own development while simultaneously supporting others. The learning community becomes a space where everyone's experiences and questions not only enrich understanding but also actively guide the course's direction, helping each individual integrate learning into their own life context in a meaningful and personally transformative way.
Requirements
Attendance is compulsory. Participants are expected to take part in all course activities, both by being present and actively participating in scheduled sessions, and by completing assignments outside scheduled lessons. If participants miss lessons, they may need to complete additional assignments to meet the course’s learning objectives. To be considered as having completed the course, 80% attendance and active participation are required.
Syllabus
See the syllabus for further information.