What does Aramaic writing look like?

Aramaic writing has several distinct features, depending on the specific script used. Here's a breakdown:

Common Features:

* Alphabet: Aramaic uses an alphabet, similar to Hebrew and Arabic. It's a consonantal script, meaning vowels are not usually written.

* Direction: Aramaic is written from right to left.

* Cursive Style: Aramaic writing often has a cursive style, where letters connect to each other.

Script Variations:

* Square Script: This is the most common form, used for religious texts and official documents. It's very similar to the Hebrew script, with letters like "aleph" (א), "bet" (ב), and "gimel" (ג).

* Estrangela Script: This older script is characterized by more rounded letters and is typically used in ancient manuscripts.

* Serto Script: A cursive script developed in the Middle Ages, often used in business and daily life.

* Palmyrene Script: This script was used in the Palmyrene Kingdom and is distinctive for its angular, linear forms.

Example of Square Script:

Here's an example of Aramaic written in the Square Script:

דִּבְרֵי הַנְּבִיאִים

(Dibrei HaNevi'im - "The Words of the Prophets")

Example of Estrangela Script:

This is an example of Aramaic written in the Estrangela Script:

𐡃𐡁𐡓𐡁𐡀 𐡅𐡓𐡃𐡕𐡊

(Dʿḇrē hʾnḇʾʾyʾm - "The Words of the Prophets")

Finding Aramaic Writing:

You can find examples of Aramaic writing online or in museums that exhibit ancient artifacts. Some libraries also hold manuscripts written in Aramaic.

I hope this helps you visualize Aramaic writing!