DESCRIPTION: This course is a study of the book of Jeremiah in Hebrew.
Particular attention will be devoted to examining the language, historical
context, and theological issues involved in interpreting the prophetic book.
Lectures will treat the historical background of the prophet's ministry, the
themes of his message, and the literary forms of their expression, as well as
the book's relationship to other prophetic literature in the Hebrew Bible.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Containing both oracles to the people and
narratives about the prophet, the book of Jeremiah addresses a variety of
issues and themes intrinsic to ministry: the experience of God's call and of
God's absence; the challenge of opposition, both lay and professional; a
diagnosis of misplaced trust and the depth of human sin; and the horizons of
God's purpose for the future.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students who successfully complete this course will have
demonstrated
(1) an ability to translate selected passages from the book of
Jeremiah; (2) an ability to use the textual apparatus of the Hebrew Bible and
other resources that aid a study of the Hebrew text of Jeremiah; (3) a
fundamental knowledge of the literary forms and thematic content of the book of
Jeremiah; (4) an acquaintance with the historical and social location of
Israel's prophetic literature, with an emphasis upon the late seventh-sixth
centuries; (5) competence in interpreting passages from the book of Jeremiah in
light of a range of appropriate approaches; (6) an ability to reflect upon
and evaluate the theological issues raised by the book of Jeremiah and to
discern their implications for Christian faith and practice; (7) an awareness
of how we may learn from historically and culturally diverse vantage points
better to read, use, and obey this portion of Scripture.
COURSE FORMAT: The course is an intensive format course. The class will meet
twice weekly, four hours per session, for five weeks. In each session, time
will be devoted to lecture presentations, translation of selected Hebrew texts,
and discussion of specific themes found in the book of Jeremiah.
REQUIRED READING: