DESCRIPTION: The course studies the origin and historical context of the first five books of the Christian Bible from Genesis to Deuteronomy; the different blocks of "law" and the principles they embody; the books as a narrative with a plot, characters, and themes; and their significance for Christian faith, life, and ministry.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: These books are of foundational significance for an understanding of the gospel, of the covenant commitment of the people of God, and of the human condition.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students who successfully complete this course will have demonstrated

• familiarity with the content of these books;

• an understanding of questions raised by the historical critical method, and of appropriate models for understanding Scripture as both human and divine word;

• skills in the interpretation of the different literary genres of the Pentateuch; and

• ability to relate the teaching of the Pentateuch to pastoral and moral questions in the church and the world.

A Bible.

García López, F. El Pentateuco. Estella (Navarra): Editorial Verbo Divino, 2003. ISBN: 978-84-8169-594-6. Publisher Price 26.97 euros.

Ska, Jean-Louis. Introducción a la lectura del Pentateuco. Verbo Divino, 2001. ISBN: 8481694355. Publisher Price $35.00.

Childs, Brevard S. Pentateuco: El Libro del Éxodo: Comentario critico y teológico. Traducción por Enrique Sanz Jiménez-Rico. Verbo Divino, 2003. ISBN: 978-84-8169-399-7. Publisher Price 45.58 euros.

Douglas, M. Pureza y peligro. Madrid: Siglo XXI, 1991. ISBN: 9789506025519. Publisher Price $13.40.

Course reader.

1. Attendance and weekly reading and assignments (15%)

2. A short paper (7 to 9 pages) by the middle of the course (35%)

3. A longer final paper (10 to 12 pages) (50%)