The Biblical Hebrew transitivity alternation in cognitive linguistic perspective

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In biblical Hebrew, a set of verbs functions in both transitive and intransitive constructions, yet explanations regarding the grammatical status of the Object have often been vague, leading to inconsistent treatments by modern grammarians. Recently, the broader linguistic community has addressed issues related to transitivity alternation. This monograph by Stephen M. Coleman aims to provide a detailed analysis of biblical Hebrew transitivity alternation through the lens of modern linguistics, particularly Cognitive Grammar and Construction Grammar. The author posits that this alternation is governed by conceptual factors. Although these verbs are frequently translated as synonymous, they actually present different construals of the realities they depict, suggesting distinct meanings. The application of Cognitive Grammar to ancient languages, especially biblical Hebrew, remains a developing field. However, this study illustrates its potential to offer fresh insights into longstanding and complex questions.