Winter 2011/Pasadena
OT501
Thomas

OT501: PENTATEUCH. Matthew A. Thomas.


DESCRIPTION: This course will be concerned with the interpretation of the Pentateuch, comprised of the books of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Close scrutiny of selected passages will alternate with attention to overarching themes, interpretive issues, and theological appropriation.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The Pentateuch contains passages that are some of the most beloved in the Bible, some of the most used (and misused) in political discourse, and some that are virtually ignored by the North American church. A critical and faithful reading of this portion of Scripture demands that we take seriously both the range of materials (genres) in the Pentateuch and various methodologies and perspectives that may inform our understanding of this portion of God's word.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have demonstrated (1) a fundamental knowledge of the content and structure of these books; (2) an acquaintance with a range of cultural and historical matters that may inform our understanding, as well as an awareness of the issues involved in assessing their contribution; (3) basic skills in interpreting texts, including the ability to use scholarly resources both critically and constructively; (4) an ability to reflect theologically upon the central themes of the Pentateuch, including creation, sin and redemption, promise and covenant, grace and law, and worship; and (5) an appreciation of how we may learn from historically and culturally diverse vantage points better to read and use this portion of Scripture.

COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet twice weekly in two-hour blocks. Instruction will include a combination of lecture (with PowerPoint), discussion, and small group exercises.

REQUIRED READING:

Alexander, T. Desmond. From Paradise to the Promised Land: An Introduction to the Pentateuch. 2nd ed. Baker, 2002. ISBN: 9780801025976. $28.99.

Clines, David J. A. The Theme of the Pentateuch. JSOT Supplement Series 10. Sheffield: University of Sheffield Press, 1978. ISBN: 9781850757924 (selections).

Fox, Everett. The Five Books of Moses: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. The Schocken Bible 1. New York: Schocken, 2000. ISBN: 9780805211191. $30.00.

Assorted articles and essays provided on Moodle.

RECOMMENDED READING:
See course syllabus for recommended texts.

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:
  1. A midterm exam (30%)

  2. A final exam (30%): both exams will combine objective elements with short answer/essays.

  3. An exegetical project of approx. 10 pages (30%): examining a passage in its context with a particular focus on its interaction with broader Pentateuchal themes.

  4. Various class exercises (10%): small group exegetical exercises to practice concepts presented in class

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MDiv core requirement in Old Testament "a" (OTA); meets MAT requirement (effective Winter 2010).

FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (November 15, 2010)