DESCRIPTION: This online course will be concerned with the interpretation of the Pentateuch, comprised of the books of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Close scrutiny of selected passages will alternate with attention to overarching themes, interpretive issues, and theological appropriation.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The Pentateuch contains passages that are some of the most beloved in the Bible, some of the most used (and misused) in political discourse, and some that are virtually ignored by the North American church. A critical and faithful reading of this portion of Scripture demands that we take seriously both the range of materials (genres) in the Pentateuch and various methodologies and perspectives that may inform our understanding of this portion of God's word.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this course will have demonstrated (1) a fundamental knowledge of the content and structure of these books; (2) an acquaintance with a range of cultural and historical matters that may inform our understanding, as well as an awareness of the issues involved in assessing their contribution; (3) basic skills in interpreting texts, including the ability to use scholarly resources both critically and constructively; (4) an ability to reflect theologically upon the central themes of the Pentateuch, including creation, sin and redemption, promise and covenant, grace and law, and worship; and (5) an appreciation of how we may learn from historically and culturally diverse vantage points better to read and use this portion of Scripture.

COURSE FORMAT: This course will be conducted online on a ten-week schedule aligned with Fuller's academic calendar. Students are required to interact with the material, with each other, and with the instructor regularly through online discussions, reading, and other assignments that promote active learning.

REQUIRED READING:

Alexander, T. Desmond. From Paradise to the Promised Land: An Introduction to the Pentateuch. 2nd ed. Baker, 2002. ISBN: 9780801025976. $28.99.

Fox, Everett. The Five Books of Moses: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. The Schocken Bible 1. New York: Schocken, 2000. ISBN: 9780805211191. $30.00.

Articles and essays on e-Reserves, including texts of relevant ancient Near Eastern documents.

1. Posting in forums and reading responses (25%): Each week, we will engage in discussions (by means of forums) related to the topics for the week. In addition, some weeks will require the submission of responses to specific readings.

2. Quizzes (25%): consisting primarily of objective elements: identifying events, characters, concepts, etc.

3. A final exam (25%): The online final exam will consist primarily of essays. The exam will be timed, and it will be `live' (i.e. available for you to take) any time from August 25 to 27.

4. An exegetical project of approx. 12 pages (25%): examining a passage in its literary, historical, and cultural contexts. The paper will be submitted online by September 7.