Spring 2006/Pasadena
OT507
Jacobs
OT507: OLD TESTAMENT EXEGESIS: PSALMS. Mignon R. Jacobs.
DESCRIPTION: The primary aim of this course is an exegetical study of the
Hebrew text of selected psalms of the book of Psalms, in light of their genres.
Towards this aim, the text will be analyzed using the methodological principles
of concept, form, historical, redaction, and text criticism. Specific attention
will be given to systematization of the various aspects of the exegetical
analysis in light of contemporary concerns.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course will enable students to (1)
better know and understand the Psalms; (2) understand more about the literary
features of the Psalms; (3) better understand the historical and cultural
situations of the Psalms; (4) develop ability in interpreting prophetic 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) have more
enthusiasm for reading the Bible; (8) use the Bible better in their
ministries; (9) move towards a deeper obedience to Scripture in their own
lives; (10) apply Hebrew language skills to specific texts.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Exegetical skills are basic to thorough interpretation
of biblical texts in ministry and spiritual growth. Such skills enable informed
evaluation of commentaries and English translations, and the use of exegetical
results as the basis of theological and hermeneutical reflections.
COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions of
exegetical activities and discussions.
REQUIRED READING:
- Craigie, Peter C. Psalms 1-50. Word Biblical Commentary.
Word, 1983.
- Elliger, K., and W. Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia.
Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1990.
- Kraus, H.-J. Psalms 60-150: A Commentary. Trans. Hilton C. Oswald.
Augsburg, 1989.
- Pleins, J. David. The Psalms: Songs of Tragedy, Hope, and Justice.
Orbis, 1993.
- Tate, Marvin. Psalm 51-100. Word Biblical Commentary. Word, 1990.
- Various articles and chapters on reserve.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Estes, Daniel J. Handbook on the Wisdom Books and Psalms.
Baker Academics, 2005.
- Gerstenberger, E. S. Psalms: With an Introduction to Cultic Poetry.
Part 1. FOTL 14. Eerdmans, 1988.
- Kraus, H.-J. Theology of the Psalms. Trans. Hilton C. Oswald.
Augsburg, 1989.
- Mays, James Luther. Psalms. Interpretation. John Knox Press, 1994.
- Miller, Patrick D. They Cried to the Lord: The Form and Theology of
Biblical Prayer. Fortress, 1994.
- Reid, Stephen Breck. Listening In: A Multicultural Reading of the
Psalms. Abingdon, 1997
- Sarna, Nahum M. On the Book of Psalms: Exploring the Prayers of Ancient
Israel. Schocken, 1993.
- See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic
Advising office.
ASSIGNMENTS: Weekly preparation is essential for successful completion of this
course. This preparation will include reading assignments, translation, and
exegetical analysis of assigned passages. When announced, exegetical analysis
will be submitted as demonstration of students' application of exegetical
methods and understanding of the various psalms. The final grade will be based
on a midterm exam (25%), attendance and class participation (20%), exegetical
analysis of assigned passages (25%), and an exegetical paper (15-18 pages)
(30%).
PREREQUISITES: LG502.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MDiv core requirement in Old Testament "c"
(OTCE).
FINAL EXAMINATION: None.