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.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course has five objectives. First, for students to apply their earlier language learning to specific texts. Second, to develop ability in interpreting Old Testament texts. Third, to understand the historical and cultural situations in which Psalms was written. Fourth, to understand the literary features of the book. Fifth, to use Psalms in their ministry.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: 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.

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

REQUIRED READING:

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

Anderson, B. W. Out of the Depths: The Psalms Speak to Us Today. 3d. ed. Louisville: John Knox, 2000.

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

Craigie, P. C. Psalms 1-50. Rev. ed. Nashville: Nelson, 2004.

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.