This collection of essays and articles by Eliezer Ben-Yehuda provides a fascinating insight into the life and work of the man credited with reviving the Hebrew language in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ben-Yehuda's passion for the Hebrew language shines through in each piece, as he discusses its history, growth, and relevance in the modern world.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is Ben-Yehuda's commitment to his cause. He faced numerous challenges and hardships throughout his life, including ridicule and opposition from many in the Jewish community. However, he remained steadfast in his belief that Hebrew should be restored as a living, modern language. The reader can't help but admire his dedication and perseverance.

The essays in this collection cover a wide range of topics, from the importance of Hebrew in education to the role of language in shaping national identity. Ben-Yehuda's insights are thought-provoking and relevant even today, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and evolution of the Hebrew language.

Overall, Selection of Essays and Articles by Eliezer Ben-Yehuda is a compelling read that sheds light on an important chapter in the history of Hebrew. It is a must-read for anyone interested in languages, linguistics, or Jewish history.

Book Description:

Eliezer Izhak Perlman (1858-1922) signed his articles as E. Ben Yehuda. He was a key figure in the revival of Hebrew as a spoken language. He regarded Hebrew and Zionism as symbiotic: “The Hebrew language can live only if we revive the nation and return it to the fatherland,” he wrote. Ben Yehuda wrote essays and articles preaching for the use of Hebrew at schools and at home. His was the first family to do so, but it took more than 20 years before there were 10 more families in Jerusalem who spoke only Hebrew at home. Ben Yehuda was the editor of several Hebrew-language newspapers and became the driving spirit behind the establishment of the Committee of the Hebrew Language, later The Academy of the Hebrew Language, an organization that still exists today. He was also the author of the first modern Hebrew Dictionary coining a large number of new words, many of them in use today. The following is a selection of his articles.