Abstract:
The paper discusses a series of related techniques that prepare and transform raw linguistic data
for advanced processing in order to unveil hidden grammatical patterns. It identifies XML as a
suitable mark-up language to build an exploitable data bank of multi-dimensional data in the
Hebrew text of the Old Testament. This concept is illustrated by tagging a transcription of Gen.
1:1-2:3 and manipulating this data bank. Transferring the data into a three-dimensional array
allows advanced processing of the data in order to either confirm existing knowledge or to mine
for new, yet undiscovered, linguistic features. Visualisation is discussed as a technique that
enhances interaction between the human researcher and the computerised technologies
supporting this process of knowledge creation. The empirical study is a small experiment that
illustrates the viability and usefulness of the proposed expert devices as well as the benefits of
applying information system techniques to linguistic databases.
