Hebrew vowels: a beginner guide to nikud
Learn together, one small step at a time
Patach
a, as in father
Kamatz
usually a; sometimes o
Segol
e, as in bed
Tsere
e (some traditions say ei)
Hiriq
i, as in machine
Holam
o, as in more
Kubutz
u, as in flute
Shuruk
u, as in flute
Sheva
short e or no vowel
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Nikud are the small marks placed below, above or inside Hebrew letters to help readers pronounce words. Many adult books omit them, but children and beginning readers benefit from seeing the vowels clearly.
Learn one vowel family at a time. Patach usually sounds like a in father; hiriq like i in machine. The examples use bet as a carrier, so say the consonant together with its vowel. English comparisons are approximate.
This is a first reading chart, not a complete grammar. Kamatz can also represent o, sheva can be silent, and reduced vowels have further rules. Pronunciation differs between communities; ask your teacher about the tradition you are learning.
Frequently asked questions
Are vowel marks separate letters?
No. Nikud add pronunciation information to the letters.
Can we print this for a classroom?
Yes. Use Print or download PDF for an A4 reference or practice page. No account is needed.
Explore more: Hebrew alphabet.
Reference: Gesenius, Hebrew Grammar, section 5 (alphabet and numbering). Sound guides here describe modern Israeli Hebrew; family and community pronunciations vary.