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Vowels (Niqqud)
Lesson 02 · ניקוד
Written Hebrew has only consonants. Vowels are marked by dots and dashes around or below letters, this system is called niqqud. In daily life, Israelis read without niqqud, but it's essential for learning correct pronunciation as a beginner.
The 5 Main Vowels
Other Vowels
Position, Most niqqudot sit under the letter. Cholam (dot above-left) and Shuruk (vav with dot inside) are exceptions.
Demo on Bet (ב), The same letter Bet takes different sounds depending on niqqud: בָּ (ba), בֶּ (beh), בִּ (bi), בּוֹ (bo), בּוּ (bu).
Demonstration on the Letter Bet
Test Words (read and listen)