DESCRIPTION: This course surveys the content of the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy) through reading and interpretation of biblical texts and discussion of these texts in commentaries and other secondary literature. It also engages in critical reflection on various aspects of the texts through examination of their literary, theological, socio-historical contexts and issues of methodology and historical background that arise in interpreting this corpus.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course will enable students to (1) better know and understand the Pentateuch; (2) understand more about the literary features of the Pentateuch; (3) better understand the historical and cultural situations of the books; (4) develop ability in interpreting texts; (5) see more clearly the nature of the Bible as both human word and holy Scripture; (6) appreciate new ways of reading Scripture; (7) use the Bible better in their ministries; (8) move towards a deeper obedience to Scripture in their own lives.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The issues concerning human existence, purpose in the universe, and the ethical basis of human relationships have been the focal point of discussions throughout society and the church. Among its objectives this course investigates the theological and hermeneutical significance of the Pentateuch in light of contemporary concerns--e.g., spirituality, ethical, gender, psychological, race, socio-economic/political.

COURSE FORMAT: This course will meet twice weekly for lectures and discussions.

REQUIRED READING:

NRSV Bible.

Alexander, T. D. From Paradise to the Promised Land: An Introduction to the Pentateuch. 2d ed. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.

Boadt, Lawrence. Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction. New York: Paulist Press, 1984.

Brenner, Athalya, ed. Feminist Companion to Exodus to Deuteronomy. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1994.

Pritchard, James B., ed. The HarperCollins Concise Atlas of the Bible. San Francisco: Harper, 1998.

Various articles and chapters on reserve in the library.

Arnold, Bill T. and Bryan E. Beyer, eds., Readings From the Ancient Near East: Primary Sources for Old Testament Studies. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.

Blenkinsopp, Joseph. The Pentateuch: An Introduction to the First Five Books of the Bible. New York: Doubleday, 1992.

Gerstenberger, Erhard S. Yahweh the Patriarch: Ancient Images of God and Feminist Theology. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1996.

Harrelson, Walter J. The Ten Commandments and Human Rights. Rev. ed. Macon, GA: Mercer University Press, 1997.

Visotzky, Burton L. The Genesis of Ethics: How the Tormented Family of Genesis Leads to Moral Development. New York: Crown Publishers, 1996.