I received this question:
Hi, I saw your Youtube video and enjoyed it immensely, well done.
I am currently studying theology and hope to study Greek in another year or so . Someone has suggested that I learn Latin first however. Is this necessary/beneficial? And if not, is the Greek that you teach the biblical (Koine – I think) Greek that I need.
Thanks for your time.
Here is my reply:
Knowing Latin cuts down on much of the time you will need to dedicate to grammar. But, ultimately… no. You do not need to learn Latin before Greek. That could be a two or three-year detour for you.
If you already know you want to learn Greek, jump into Greek. Why learn Latin first? It is helpful, for sure. It is not necessary. If it were, then how could all those modern Greeks speak Greek?
As for Greek itself, I teach ancient Greek and Biblical Greek. I am moving to Greece in 6 weeks to study modern Greek. If you were to join my Greek class, you would find an emphasis on ancient Greek. But, you will learn Koine Greek as well.
However, you should know, I teach with a modern Greek pronunciation. I will be moving overseas to work on my accent.
Let me know if you need more help!
The conversation continues:
Thank you for your informative response. Greek it is then! I presume details for your class are on your website. I will have a close look and see how feasible it will be for me.
May I wish you the best with your move.
Final link and one caveat:
All the information is here: https://dwanethomas.com/online-greek-class/
Full disclosure… I am still learning Greek myself. I am about four years into the process. With 5 kids and a full-time job, I am on the slow track.
