How to make Classical Arabic learning be easy for you? As any beginner in Arabic learning will know, the Arabic language is broadly divided into two categories – Classical Arabic and Modern Standard Arabic.
Moreover, the language has got more than 30 dialects in the world. The first step to learning Arabic is to choose the right dialect and style of Arabic that you want to learn.
Learning Classical Arabic can be a challenge, but there are some things you can do to make the process easier and more enjoyable. Here are some tips:
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Focus on the basics: Start by learning the Arabic alphabet and the basics of grammar and vocabulary. Don’t try to tackle too much at once.
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Use multiple resources: Use a variety of resources to learn Classical Arabic, such as textbooks, online courses, videos, and language exchange programs. This will help you get a well-rounded education and expose you to different teaching styles.
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Practice consistently: Try to practice a little bit each day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Consistency is key when learning a new language.
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Find a tutor: Consider finding a tutor who can provide personalized instruction and help you with specific areas where you’re struggling.
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Immerse yourself in the language: Try to surround yourself with Classical Arabic as much as possible. Listen to Arabic music, watch Arabic TV shows and movies, and read Arabic books and articles.
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Practice speaking: Don’t be afraid to practice speaking aloud, even if you make mistakes. This is an important part of the learning process and will help you improve your fluency.
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Be patient and persistent: Learning a new language takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and keep working at it, even when it feels difficult.
If you are learning Arabic for getting a better understanding of Islam, there is no confusion. You can forget about other dialects and styles and choose Classical Arabic and look for opportunities to learn it. You need to get familiar with the Arabic alphabet and Arabic grammar to start the learning process.
However, learning Classical Arabic is not an easy task for everyone. It is largely different from other European languages like Spanish, French, Portuguese, etc.
Although it will ultimately become a rewarding process, most of the learners will go through ups and downs while aiming to gain mastery over Classical Arabic. So are you planning to learn Classical Arabic? Here’s an informative read for you on learning Classical Arabic.
What is Classical Arabic?
Classical Arabic is the form of the Arabic language that was used in the Arabian Peninsula during the 7th century, when the Islamic religion and the Quran were revealed. It is considered to be the purest form of Arabic and is the basis for the Modern Standard Arabic that is spoken and written today.
it is characterized by its complex grammar and vocabulary, and it is considered to be one of the most difficult languages to learn. It is also the language of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, and is used in religious texts, poetry, and literature.
Classical Arabic has had a significant influence on other languages, including Persian, Turkish, Urdu, and Swahili. It is also widely used in diplomatic and religious contexts throughout the Arab world.
As any language learners will know, the classical form of a language will be slightly different from its vernacular forms.
It is the same in the case of the Arabic language too. Classical Arabic is another name for Quranic Arabic. Quran, the holy book of Islam, is written in Classical Arabic hence the name.
It is the style of Arabic in which the sacred and liturgical texts of Islam are written.
By learning Classical Arabic, you will be able to understand more about the Islamic religion. You can read and understand Quran recitations and enrich your knowledge about Muslim spirituality.
Definitely, learning Classical Arabic will help you deepen your religious faith. But the benefits of learning Classical Arabic are not restricted to religious purposes.
Learning Classical Arabic has a lot of offers to people who don’t have much interest in learning about religion as well.
It opens the door to gaining a better understanding of the Arabic language and culture while enabling you to know more about Arab civilization. You can learn the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East when you can read and understand Classical Arabic.
History of Arabic Classical Arabic is the standardized literary form of the Arabic language.
It is a Semitic language that has a history of more than 1400 years. It is believed that the Arabic alphabet and Arabic grammar have their roots traced to Aramaic, which is based on Phoenicians.
The actual origin of the Arabic script and grammar is still a debatable topic. One of the hypotheses says that the language originated in the 5th and 6th century BC by a North Semitic tribe which is called the Nabateans.
They have used a primitive version of the Arabic alphabet. The language had a slow progression.
By the 6th century, the Arabic alphabet was well established and started to spread across the world.
In a nutshell, when you are proficient in it, you will learn one of the oldest languages in the world.
The Arabic alphabet is the second-most widely used alphabet in the world.
In total, there are 28 letters in the Arabic language, and all of it is considered consonants.
Every letter in the Arabic alphabet can take four different forms – Initial, Medial, Final, and Isolated.
It is simple to understand. If the letter comes at the start, it is considered an Initial. If it is used in the middle,
it is called Medial. If the letter is used at the end, it takes the Final form. A few letters can be used by themselves which are referred to as Isolated. Points to remember before you start learning Classical Arabic
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Give yourself enough time
As mentioned above, Classical Arabic is complex. Therefore, make sure you give yourself enough time to learn it. On average, one should give one or two years to learn Classical Arabic.
You need to be patient and diligent throughout the learning process.
You may find it a bit tough at times and you should be prepared to continue your learning journey.
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Keep practicing
To learn a new language, you should increase your exposure to it. You can practice Arabic by reading Quran and other literature from the old times.
You can listen to Arabic news and Quranic recitations to familiarise yourself with the language.
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Join an Arabic course online
Today you have numerous online resources at your disposal to learn any language in the world. Select an authentic online Arabic course and enroll in it. If you can find a dedicated teacher who can teach Classical Arabic,
it will ease up the learning process. If you have more time to dedicate to learning Classical Arabic, you can join an institute as well.
There are institutes offering studies on Islamic Sciences and Quranic Arabic in many parts of the world.
By joining a good institute offline or online, you can learn the language in a healthy and motivating environment.
- Be dedicated and work towards your goal
Learning Classical Arabic is not an impossible task, provided you put in the required effort. Make sure you stay dedicated to the learning process.
Also, you should employ the tools and proper strategy to learn it. If possible, you can enroll in private tuition to help you learn Classical Arabic.
- Make slow and steady progress
Let your goal be learning Classical Arabic or Modern Arabic the key lies in choosing the right learning method.
In this digital age, you can find authentic online coaching platforms where the course structure is well-organized and follow a learner-friendly approach.
Choose the right course that fits your requirement and learning style. We wish you good luck throughout the learning process!
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