Spring 2013/Pasadena

OT507

Jacobs

OT507: OLD TESTAMENT EXEGESIS: PSALMS. Mignon R. Jacobs.

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: Upon successful completion of this course students will have demonstrated (1) knowledge of selected Psalms; (2) ability to interpret the Psalms through reading and critical interaction (via historical, cultural, literary, and other methods); (3) application of Hebrew language skills to specific texts; (4) skills in reading the Psalms theologically; and (5) use of the Psalms in devotional exercises and contemporary contexts.

COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions of exegetical activities and discussions. This course includes Moodle as a part of its design.

REQUIRED READING:

Brown, F., S. R. Driver, and C. A. Briggs. A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament, with an appendix, containing the Biblical Aramaic. Hendrickson, 1996.** ISBN: 978-1565632066, Pub.price $34.95 [1216 pp.].

Brueggemann, Walter. Spirituality of the Psalms. Fortress, 2002. ISBN: 978-0800634506, Pub.price $11.99 [96 pp.].

Craigie, Peter C. Psalms 1–50. 2nd ed. Word Biblical Commentary. Word, 2004. ISBN: 978-0785250135. Pub.price $49.99 [416 pp.].

Elliger, K., and W. Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. Hendrickson, 1997.** ISBN: 978-1598561623, Pub.price $37.95 [1574 pp.].

Estes, Daniel J. Handbook on the Wisdom Books and Psalms. Baker Academic, 2005. ISBN: 978-0801038884, Pub.price $34.99 [448 pp.].

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

**Student may use electronic versions of the text and other lexica.

ONE of the following:

Kraus, H.-J. Theology of the Psalms. Translated by Hilton C. Oswald. Augsburg, 1989. ISBN: 978-0800695064, Pub.price $43.00 [236 pp.].

Miller, Patrick D. They Cried to the Lord: The Form and Theology of Biblical Prayer. Fortress, 1994. ISBN: 978-0800627621, Pub.price $29.00 [484 pp.].

Reid, Stephen Breck. Listening In: A Multicultural Reading of the Psalms. Abingdon, 1997. ISBN: 978-0687011940, Pub.price $22.00 [112 pp.].

See the Biblical Division bibliography “Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program” available online and in the SOT Academic Advising office.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Gerstenberger, E. S. Psalms: Part 1, With an Introduction to Cultic Poetry (FOTL 14). Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1988. ISBN: 978-0802802552, Pub.price $19.99 [280 pp.].

Kraus, H.-J. Psalms 60–150: A Commentary. Translated by Hilton C. Oswald. Augsburg, 1989. ISBN: 978-0800695040, Pub.price $59.00 [600 pp.].

Mays, James Luther. Psalms: Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching. John Knox Press, 2011. ISBN: 978-0664234393, Pub.price $30.00 [480 pp.].

Pleins, J. David. The Psalms: Songs of Tragedy, Hope, and Justice. Orbis, 1993. ISBN: 978-0883449288, Pub.price $20.00 [229 pp.].

Tate, Marvin. Word Biblical Commentary: Psalms 51–100 Vol. 20. Word, 1991. ISBN: 978-0849902192, Pub.price $49.99 [608 pp.].

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT: The final grade will be based on the following components:

1. Attendance and class participation (35%). Weekly preparation and participation is essential for successful completion of this course. This preparation and participation will include reading assignments, translation, and exegetical analysis of assigned passages. Participation will also include in-class devotionals and online discussions focused on the devotional use of the Psalms.

2. COURSE portfolio (65%) demonstrating use and application of exegetical skills, consisting of (1) exegetical analyses of assigned passages (35%)—demonstrating students’ application of exegetical methods, use of tools, and understanding of the Psalms; and (2) an exegetical project (30%)—demonstrating application of exegetical practice to today’s context and concerns.

PREREQUISITES: LG502.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MDiv core requirement in Old Testament “c” (OTCE) and MA program requirements for Old Testament book study (OTBK).