DESCRIPTION:

This will be an exegetical study of the Song of Songs. We will use the critical methods appropriate to a study of this kind (literary, form, textual, etc.) to enter the world-view of the Ancient Near Eastern author, and we will examine the hermeneutical methodologies which have been set forth in efforts to relate the truth of this Scripture to modern believers. Lectures will 1) explore thematic and structural issues and examine parallels in the Ancient Near Eastern literatures and 2) consider the Song's place in the wisdom tradition and its impact upon the Old and New Testaments.

Through this course, students will be able to 1) articulate the theological challenges of the Song; 2) appreciate its pragmatic spirituality; 3) reflect theologically and sensitively on human sexuality and related issues; and 4) relate the ancient truths of the Song to situations confronting contemporary humanity.

The class will meet for two four-hour sessions each week for five weeks.

Elliger, K. and W. Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1990.

Keel, O. The Song of Songs. Fortress, 1994.

Murphy, R. E. The Song of Songs. Fortress, 1990.

Pope, M. Song of Songs. Doubleday, 1977.

[Other selections will be announced in class and placed on a reserve shelf in the Library.]

Books and articles placed on the reserve shelf.

Exegetical written preparation of passages for discussion for each class meeting (30% of grade). An exegetical paper (12-15 pages) will be required (60% of grade).

LG502.

Meets the M.Div. core requirement for exegetical study in Old Testament "C" (OTCE).

Yes (10% of grade).