A computer-assisted exploration of the semantic role frameworks in Genesis 1:1-2:3

Abstract

This article focuses on the extraction and exploration of semantic role frameworks via a visual basic 6 program from an xml data cube containing linguistic data of the Hebrew text of Genesis 1:1-2:3. The semantic roles in the clauses were analysed and marked up according to S.C Dik’s theory of functional Grammar (Dik 1997a, 1997b; Kroeze 1996, 2003). The program extracts the semantic role frameworks by slicing the relevant information from a three-dimensional data cube. Unique semantic role frameworks are then identified and their frequencies calculated. The various patterns are shown and discussed. Some interesting combinations are highlighted and suggestions are made for the revision of the definitions of some of the semantic functions. The results of the study indicate the value of the computer-assisted exploration for Hebrew studies and other linguistic research.