In this essential contribution to the study of Aramaisms in the Bible, noted linguist E. Kautzsch provides a thorough introduction to the subject. Since Aramaisms are not overly abundant in the Bible, Kautzsch has the space to dedicate a significant analysis. After introducing the subject, he considers Aramaisms that are beyond doubt. These are arranged alphabetically and each is discussed in a brief paragraph that provides the citation and translation. This is followed by a summary overview of the usages and where in the Bible they are found. Results of the study are presented in narrative form. His study concludes with a collection of dubious Aramaisms and those that are sometimes developed from other Aramaisms. For linguists interested in how Aramaic influenced biblical Hebrew, as understood at the turn of the twentieth century, this little book will be of great value.

Emil Friedrich Kautzsch (1841-1910) received his education at the University of Leipzig where he later was appointed to the faculty. He eventually received professorships at the Universities of Basel, Tübingen, and finally, Halle. Kautzsch was also notable in that he was one of the founders of the German Palestine Exploration Society. He published other works on Semitic grammar but is best known for his edition of Gesenius’ Grammar.