Syriac Lexicography: Reflections on Resources and Sources

In this brief survey of Syriac lexicographic tools, the first half considers the differing characters of the existing dictionaries, while the second discusses some of the more important source materials available for future work on Syriac lexicography: here mention is made of the various concordances (almost all of biblical texts) and word lists available, and of collections of some particular categories of words. By way of conclusion some practical suggestions are offered concerning how progress towards an eventual new Syriac dictionary might be compiled.