DESCRIPTION:

The course studies the origin and historical value of 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.

By the end of the course students should have

• gained familiarity with these books of the Bible with their foundational significance for an understanding of the gospel, of the commitment of the people of God, and of what it means to be human;

• considered questions raised by a recognition that these books are God's word and by the application of critical methods to them, in the context of current ferment over the origin of the Pentateuch;

• developed skills in the interpretation of Old Testament narrative; and

• considered how to relate Old Testament "law" to doctrinal, pastoral, and moral questions in church and world.

The course meets twice weekly for four-hour blocks. Most blocks will require specific reading of the biblical text and other preparation. The classroom time will then combine lectures, work in groups of four, and plenary discussion. The course is thus not primarily lecture-based; it emphasizes collaborative learning and students need to be willing to be committed to working together with other students. Students should also note that the issues involved in studying the Pentateuch are particularly complex; if they have undertaken no Old Testament study before, they might be advised first to study Writings or Prophets.

Students will not be required to possess any books except an NRSV and a copy of the course reader.

Brueggemann, W. Genesis. Atlanta: Knox, 1982.

Frankel, E. The Five Books of Miriam: A Woman's Commentary on the Torah. San Francisco: Harper, 1996.

Fretheim, T. Exodus. Atlanta: Knox, 1991.

Goldingay, J. After Eating the Apricot. Carlisle, UK: Paternoster, 1996.

Hartley, J. E. Leviticus. Dallas: Word, 1992.

Miles, J. God: A Biography. New York: Knopf/London: Simon Schuster, 1995.

Olson, D. T. Numbers. Louisville: Knox, 1996.

Wright, C. J. H. Deuteronomy. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson/Carlisle, UK: Paternoster, 1996.

1. Attendance at lectures, with a pass-fail exam for students who have to miss more than one four-hour block.

2. Preparation for lectures, with submission of a file of preparation notes to be graded pass-fail.

3. 15-20 page reflection paper.

None, but see under course format.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Old Testament "a" (OTA).