DESCRIPTION:

The primary goal of this course is to develop exegetical skills through exegetical study of the Hebrew text of the Minor Prophets (Book of the Twelve), in light of particular contextual aspects. Towards this goal, texts will be analyzed using the methodological principles of concept-, form-, historical-, redaction, and text-criticism. Specific attention will be given to systematizing various aspects of the exegetical analysis and discerning these aspects in modern writings and thoughts.

Exegetical skills are basic to thorough interpretation of biblical texts in ministry. Such skills enable informed evaluation of commentaries and other English translations, and the use of exegetical results as the basis of theological and hermeneutical reflections.

The course will meet twice weekly in two-hour sessions for lectures and discussions.

Elliger, K. and W. Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1990.

Floyd, Michael H. Minor Prophets Part 2. The Forms of the Old Testament Literature 22. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2000.

McComiskey, T. E., ed. The Minor Prophets: An Exegetical and Expository Commentary. Vols.1 and 2. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1992 and1993.

Various books and articles on library reserve.

See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office.

Achtemeier, Elizabeth. Preaching from the Minor Prophets: Texts and Sermon Suggestions. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998.

Bellis, Alice Ogden, ed. Many Voices: Multicultural Responses to the Minor Prophets. Lanham: University Press of America, 1995.

Newsome, J. D. The Hebrew Prophets. Louisville: Westminster/John Knox, 1986.

Sweeney, Marvin and David W. Cotter, eds. The Twelve Prophets. Collegeville, Minn.: Liturgical Press, 2000.

Weekly preparation is essential for successful completion of this course. This preparation will include reading assignments, translation and exegetical analysis of assigned passages. When announced, exegetical analysis will be submitted as demonstration of students' application of exegetical methods and understanding of the book of the Minor Prophets. The final grade will be based on attendance, class participation, exegetical analysis of assigned passages, a mid-term exam, and an exegetical paper.

LG502.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Old Testament "b" (OTBE).

None.