Exercise on ‘et

1) The particle here is followed by a definite noun, הַשָּׁמַיִם. Can this particle also be used with an indefinite noun? Explain why.
View the answer.

1) The answer is no because it is not just a 'direct object marker' but a 'definite direct object marker.' It is possible for a direct object to be indefinite, e.g., "Indians love curry." It is been pointed out that "occasionally ‎את is found before what looks like an indefinite form, but usually where there is clearly a definite meaning and a need to avoid ambiguity" (A.D. Rubin, Studies in Semitic Grammaticalization (Harvard Semitic Studies; Leiden: Brill, 2005), 92). The general rule set out by Hebrew grammarians is that ‎את "can only properly stand before a definite noun, i. e. one which is so either (l) by being a proper name, or (2) having the definite article ‎הָ, or (3) having a word dependent upon it, or (4) having a pronominal suff." (S. P. Tregelles, Hebrew Reading Lessons, (London/New York: Samuel Bagster/Harper & Bros., n.d.), 2; also C. L. Seow, A Grammar for Biblical Hebrew, rev. ed., (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1995), 98). The word with which it is here (Gen 1:1) used is rendered definite by the prefixed ‎הַ on the next noun, "the heavens."

You may wish to polish up on your ‎את with the following resources:

"Hebrew Grammar - How to use 'et' (‎את)," Blackboard Hebrew.
Youtube N (Open on Phone)

Back

©ALBERITH
251022lch