Matres lectionis Aramaic alphabet

in aramaic writing, waw , yodh serve double function. originally, represented consonants w , y, later adopted indicate long vowels ū , ī respectively (often ō , ē respectively). in latter role, known matres lectionis or mothers of reading .

Ālap, likewise, has of characteristics of mater lectionis because in initial positions, indicates glottal stop (followed vowel), otherwise, stands long vowels ā or ē. among jews, influence of hebrew led use of hē instead, @ end of word.

the practice of using letters hold vowel values spread aramaic-derived writing systems, such in arabic , hebrew, still follow practice.