DESCRIPTION: The primary goal of this course is to develop exegetical skills through study of the Hebrew text of Chronicles. We will examine the historical background of the postexilic period, and will trace the themes of the message and the literary forms of expression of the book. Some of the important theological topics include the elusive presence of God, Israel's place among the nations, temple and worship, and retribution versus repentance.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this course will have demonstrated (1) an enhanced competence in basic Hebrew and exegetical skills leading to a better knowledge and understanding of the book of Chronicles; (2) ability to interpret the Bible through creative reading and critical interaction via historical, cultural, literary, and other methods; (3) skills in reading the Bible theologically in light of one's own culture; (4) a greater sensitivity to the Bible as both human word and holy Scripture.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Chronicles is a deeply theological work, offering hope during circumstances when God appears distant and his promises remain unfulfilled. Conveying this biblical message to faith communities in a meaningful & responsible way requires skillful exegesis of this theologically rich text.

COURSE FORMAT: This course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions. Sessions will involve prepared exegetical translations, discussions, and lectures.

REQUIRED READING:

Elliger, K. & W. Rudolph. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. 5th ed. Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1997.

Either Koehler, L. & W. Baumgartner. The Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament. 2 vols. Translated by M. E. J. Richardson. Brill, 2001.
Or Brown, F., S. R. Driver & C. A. Briggs. A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament, with an Appendix, Containing the Biblical Aramaic. Hendrickson, 1996.

Either Joüon, P. & T. Muraoka. A Grammar of Biblical Hebrew. Editrice Pontificio Istituto Biblio, 1991.
Or Gesenius, W. & E. F. Kautzsch et al. Gesenius' Hebrew Grammar. 2d ed. Clarendon, 1963.

Two of the following commentaries:

Japhet, Sara. 1 and 2 Chronicles. Westminster John Knox, 2002.

Knoppers, G. N. 1 Chronicles 1-9; 1 Chronicles 10-29. Anchor Bible 12; 12A. Doubleday, 2003; 2004.

McKenzie, Steven L. 1 and 2 Chronicles. Abingdon, 2004.

Williamson, Hugh G. 1 and 2 Chronicles. Eerdmans, 1982.

Course reader.

Graham, M. P., et al., eds. The Chronicler as Historian; The Chronicler as Author; and The Chronicler as Theologian. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1997; 1999; 2003.

Additional recommended texts will be listed in the syllabus.

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