Ancient Hebrew Language and Alphabet

Ancient Hebrew Language and Alphabet
Figure 21 The Ancient Hebrew alphabet c. 1000 BCE (mirror
image)
A surprising number of our English words are derived
from Hebrew. As an example, the Hebrew word yrp /
periy, meaning fruit, is a derivative of the Parent Root rp
/ par. The English words pear, prune, persimmon and
apricot, all fruits, are derived from the rp / par root.
Through the evolution of language, it is common for
similar sounds to replace the original sound. The "r" and
"l" sounds are often interchanged as both are vocal 43
consonants and can be pronounced for a prolonged time.
The English fruit words apple and plum, are also derived
from the rp / par root with the "r" exchanged for an "l"
sound.
Another common sound change is made with the lips such
as the "b", "p", "v" and "f". The English fruit words berry
and fruit, are also derived from the rp / par root with the
"p" exchanged for a "b" and "f" sound. In addition, letters
will some times change position such as the fruit word
grape and ripe.
Another example is the Parent Root rb / bar, meaning
grain. From this root several English words are derived
and related to "grain", such as: barley (a grain); bread
43 As opposed to the frictives like the "s, sh" sounds which are given
sound by blowing air through the mouth.
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