DESCRIPTION:

This course surveys content of the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy) through reading and interpretation of the biblical text and discussion of these texts in commentaries and other secondary literature. It also engages in critical reflection on various aspects of the texts through examination of their literary, theological, socio-historical contexts and issues of methodology and historical background that arise in interpreting this corpus.

The issues concerning human existence, purpose in the universe, and ethical basis of human relationships have been the focal point of discussions throughout society and the church. Among its objectives this course investigates the theological and hermeneutical significance of the Pentateuch in light of contemporary concerns--e.g., spirituality, ethical, gender, psychological, race, socio-economic/political.

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

NRSV Bible.

Alexander, T. D. From Paradise to the Promised Land: An Introduction to the Pentateuch. 2d ed. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.

Boadt, Lawrence. Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction. New York: Paulist Press, 1984.

Brenner, Athalya, ed. Feminist Companion to Exodus to Deuteronomy. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1994.

Pritchard, James B., ed. The HarperCollins Concise Atlas of the Bible. San Francisco: Harper, 1998.

Various articles and chapters on reserve in the library.

Arnold, B. T. and B. E. Beyer, eds. Readings From the Ancient Near East: Primary Sources for Old Testament Studies. Grand rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.

Blenkinsopp, Joseph. The Pentateuch: An Introduction to the First Five Books of the Bible. New York: Doubleday, 1992.

Gerstenberger, Erhard S. Yahweh the Patriarch: Ancient Images of God and Feminist Theology. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1996.

Visotzky, Burton L. The Genesis of Ethics: How the Tormented Family of Genesis Leads to Moral Development. New York: Crown Publishers, 1996.

Weekly preparation and attendance are required parts of the course. The final grade will be based on two (5-7 pages) critical papers, a mid-term, and a final exam.

None.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Old Testament "a" (OTA).

Yes.