DESCRIPTION: This course will survey the Pentateuch, analyzing its features,
genres, historical and social location, compositional history, and theological
testimony. An emphasis will be placed on the history of interpretation within
early Judaism and formative Christianity. Instruction will be based upon
English translations.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have
demonstrated (1) a knowledge of the content of these books; (2) an
understanding of the historical development of these books; (3) a familiarity
with the Ancient Near Eastern background of these books; (4) an acquaintance
with the history of interpretation of these books within early Jewish and
Christian communities; (5) skills for interpretation, including the ability to
use scholarly resources; and (6) an ability to discern and engage theological
issues raised by these texts.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The importance of these books in the history of the
church is clear; however, in modern times, many theological debates have been
fomented by divergent understandings of these books. In this course, the
student will be exposed to all of the relevant issues, which will help foster a
mature perspective of what these texts meant in their original context and
their use in modern times.
COURSE FORMAT: The course meets twice weekly in two-hour blocks. The course
will include lectures and discussions.
REQUIRED READING: