DESCRIPTION: The primary aim of this course is an exegetical study of the Hebrew text of selected psalms of the book of Psalms, in light of their genres and themes. Towards this aim, various psalms will be analyzed using the methodological principles of concept, form, historical, redaction, and text and literary criticism. Specific attention will be given to systematization of the various aspects of the exegetical analysis in light of contemporary concerns.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Exegetical skills are basic to thorough interpretation of biblical texts in ministry and spiritual growth. Such skills enable informed evaluation of commentaries and English translations and the use of exegetical results as the basis of theological and hermeneutical reflections.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course will enable students (1) to better know and understand the Psalms; (2) to develop ability in interpreting the Bible through reading and critical interaction via historical, cultural, literary, and other methods; (3) to apply Hebrew language skills to specific texts; and (4) to become more skilled in reading the Bible theologically.

COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions of exegetical activities and discussions.

REQUIRED READING:

Craigie, Peter C. Psalms 1-50. Word Biblical Commentary. Word, 1983.

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

Estes, Daniel J. Handbook on the Wisdom Books and Psalms. Baker Academic, 2005.

Tate, Marvin. Psalms 51-100. Word Biblical Commentary. Word, 1990.

Various articles and chapters on reserve (see Library Reserve).

One of the following:

Brueggemann, Walter. Spirituality of the Psalms. Fortress, 2002.

Kraus, H.-J. Theology of the Psalms. Trans. Hilton C. Oswald. Augsburg, 1989.

Miller, Patrick D. They Cried to the Lord: The Form and Theology of Biblical Prayer. Fortress, 1994.

See also the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Programs" available at http://documents.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/094/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html and in the SOT Academic Advising office.

Gerstenberger, E. S. Psalms: With an Introduction to Cultic Poetry. Part 1. FOTL 14. Eerdmans, 1988.

Kraus, H.-J. Psalms 60-150: A Commentary. Trans. Hilton C. Oswald. Augsburg, 1989.

Mays, James Luther. Psalms. Interpretation. John Knox Press, 1994.

Pleins, J. David. The Psalms: Songs of Tragedy, Hope, and Justice. Orbis, 1993.

Reid, Stephen Breck. Listening In: A Multicultural Reading of the Psalms. Abingdon, 1997

Sarna, Nahum M. On the Book of Psalms: Exploring the Prayers of Ancient Israel. Schocken, 1993.