Is Paleo Hebrew Read Right to Left?

The Paleo-Hebrew script, also known as Palaeo-Hebrew, Proto-Hebrew or Old Hebrew, is a fascinating writing system that has been used for centuries. One of the most significant questions surrounding this script is whether it is read from right to left. In this article, we will delve into the history and characteristics of Paleo-Hebrew, exploring its relationship with other writing systems and examining the evidence for reading direction.

The first Paleo-Hebrew inscription identified in modern times was the Shebna inscription, discovered in 1870. This important find sparked a renewed interest in the script, which is often referred to as 'two large ancient Hebrew inscriptions in Phoenician letters.' However, scholars have since realized that this term is misleading, as Paleo-Hebrew and Phoenician are actually two regional variants of the same script.

In 1954, Solomon Birnbaum suggested using the term 'Paleo-Hebrew alphabet' to distinguish it from its Phoenician counterpart. He argued that applying the term 'Phoenician' to the Hebrew script is not entirely suitable, as it does not accurately reflect the unique characteristics of the writing system.

The Talmud provides additional insight into the Paleo-Hebrew script, describing it as the 'Libona'a script' (Aramaic לִיבּוֹנָאָה Lībōnāʾā), which translates to 'Lebanon script.' This terminology has been interpreted by some scholars as suggesting a connection between the Paleo-Hebrew script and the region of Lebanon.

One of the most significant implications of using the Paleo-Hebrew script is its potential relationship with the original texts of the Hebrew Bible. As the Talmud states that the ancient Hebrew script was still used by the Samaritans, it has been suggested that the Paleo-Hebrew script may have been used to record these original texts due to its similarity to the Samaritan script.

The Paleo-Hebrew script has also been found in inscriptions from other regions, including Southern Canaan (also known as biblical Israel and Judah), as well as BCEĪdlam, Caucasian Albanian, Cherokee, and possibly other languages. These finds have expanded our understanding of the script's geographical range and its relationship with other writing systems.

In conclusion, while there is ongoing debate about the reading direction of Paleo-Hebrew, the available evidence suggests that it may be read from right to left. Further research is needed to confirm this theory, but the unique characteristics of the Paleo-Hebrew script and its connection to other writing systems make it a fascinating area of study for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Is paleo hebrew read right to left