DESCRIPTION:

A study of the Psalms in Hebrew. Psalms will be selected to illustrate the different types of prayer, praise meditation, etc. to be found in the Psalter. Attention will be paid to exegesis, structure, setting, and canonical value.

The book of Psalms has taken a firm hold not only of the New Testament, but also of the heart of Christian believers and worshipers down the ages. To discern the basic spirituality of these poems will lead to an enriched understanding of their contemporary relevance.

The class will meet for two hours twice a week for lectures and discussion.

Allen, L. C. Psalms 101-150. Rev. ed. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2003.

Anderson, B. W. Out of the Depths: The Psalms Speak to us Today. Rev. ed. Philadelphia: Westminster, 1983.

Broyles, C. C. The Conflict of Faith and Experience in the Psalms. Sheffield: JSOT Press, 1989.

Craigie, P. Psalms 1-50. Waco: Word Books, 1982.

Elliger, K. and Rudolph, W. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1983.

Kraus, H.-J. Psalms 1-59. Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1988.

_________. Psalms 60-150. Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1989.

Mays, J. L. Psalms. Louisville: John Knox, 1994.

Tate, M. E. Psalms 51-100. Dallas: Word Books, 1990.

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

Allen, L. C. Word Biblical Themes: Psalms. Waco: Word Books, 1987.

Brueggemann, W. The Psalms and the Life of Faith. Ed. P. D. Miller. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1995.

Basic study of the text, including the reading of a commentary, should precede class work. Further reading of commentaries will be necessary. An exegetical paper will also be required, which will contribute 40% towards the course grade. A midterm examination will be worth 20%, and a final examination will contribute 40%.

LG502.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Old Testament "c" (OTCE).

Yes. It will involve translation and exegesis of Psalm passages previously studied.