Albert Schultens, Dutch philologist and academic (b. 1686)

Albert Schultens (Dutch: [ˈɑlbərt ˈsxʏltəns]; 22 August 1686 – 26 January 1750) was a highly influential Dutch philologist and Orientalist. Renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the study of Semitic languages, particularly Hebrew and Arabic, Schultens played a pivotal role in shaping modern biblical philology and comparative linguistics during the Enlightenment era. His innovative methodologies transformed the academic approach to understanding ancient texts.

A Pioneer in Semitic Philology: The "Arabic Method"

Albert Schultens is primarily celebrated for his pioneering work in comparative Semitic philology. Dissatisfied with traditional interpretations of biblical Hebrew that relied solely on rabbinic commentaries or Greek and Latin translations, Schultens advocated for a revolutionary approach. He argued forcefully that a deeper, more accurate understanding of biblical Hebrew could only be achieved by studying it in conjunction with other cognate Semitic languages, most notably Arabic.

This methodology, famously known as the "Arabic method" or "Schultens' method," proposed that Arabic, as a rich and then still living Semitic language, could shed invaluable light on obscure Hebrew words, phrases, and idioms found in the Old Testament. For instance, he demonstrated how certain rare or enigmatic Hebrew terms could be clarified by their more common and robust Arabic equivalents, thereby unlocking new layers of meaning in sacred texts. This innovative perspective marked a significant departure from previous scholarly paradigms and laid the groundwork for future comparative linguistic research.

Academic Career and Profound Influence

Schultens' distinguished academic career saw him hold prominent positions in two of the Netherlands' most prestigious universities. Initially, he served as Professor of Oriental Languages at the University of Franeker, a significant intellectual hub of the time. His scholarly prowess and innovative teaching methods soon led him to a professorship at the renowned Leiden University, where he continued to champion his comparative approach to Semitic studies until his passing. At Leiden, he became a central figure in the flourishing Dutch school of Orientalism, attracting numerous students and leaving an indelible mark on subsequent generations of scholars. His son, Jan Jacob Schultens, notably followed in his footsteps, ensuring the continuity of his father's academic legacy and methodological principles.

Key Publications and Scholarly Contributions

Among Albert Schultens' most enduring legacies are his numerous scholarly publications, which meticulously articulated and applied his philological principles. His works served as foundational texts for the comparative study of Semitic languages and continue to be referenced by scholars today.

• Origines Hebraeae (1724, revised 1738): Considered his magnum opus, this two-volume work comprehensively outlined his "Arabic method," presenting compelling arguments and examples for using Arabic to illuminate Hebrew biblical texts. It profoundly influenced subsequent generations of biblical scholars.
• Commentaries on Biblical Books: Schultens produced influential commentaries on several Old Testament books, including Job, Proverbs, and the Song of Solomon. These commentaries were distinct in their detailed linguistic analyses, often drawing on Arabic parallels to clarify difficult passages.
• Lexicographical Works: He also contributed significantly to Hebrew lexicography, compiling dictionaries and glossaries that incorporated his comparative insights, thereby enriching the understanding of biblical vocabulary.

Lasting Legacy in Philology and Oriental Studies

Albert Schultens' contributions extended far beyond his lifetime. He is credited with establishing the systematic and scientific study of comparative Semitic philology, transforming it from a largely theological pursuit into a rigorous academic discipline. His emphasis on empirical linguistic comparison, rather than mere theological interpretation, paved the way for modern historical-critical methods in biblical studies. His work underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, demonstrating how the study of one language can profoundly deepen the understanding of another, especially within a shared linguistic family like the Semitic languages. Today, his influence can still be seen in the scholarly appreciation for the broader Semitic linguistic context when interpreting ancient Hebrew texts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Albert Schultens

Who was Albert Schultens?

Albert Schultens (1686-1750) was a prominent Dutch philologist and Orientalist, widely recognized for his pioneering work in comparative Semitic linguistics, especially his innovative approach to studying Hebrew through its relationship with Arabic.

What is the "Arabic method" in philology?

The "Arabic method," championed by Schultens, is a philological technique that advocates for using the Arabic language to help understand and interpret obscure or difficult passages in biblical Hebrew. Schultens argued that because Arabic is a closely related Semitic language with a rich vocabulary and a continuous living tradition, it could provide crucial insights into the meanings of ancient Hebrew words and idioms.

Where did Albert Schultens teach?

Albert Schultens held professorships in Oriental Languages at two prestigious Dutch institutions: initially at the University of Franeker and later at the renowned Leiden University, where he continued his influential work until his death.

Why is Albert Schultens considered important?

Schultens is considered important for revolutionizing biblical philology by introducing a systematic comparative method for Semitic languages. His "Arabic method" fundamentally changed how scholars approached Hebrew texts, moving beyond traditional interpretations to embrace a more linguistic and historical-critical perspective. He effectively established the scientific basis for comparative Semitic studies.