DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to explore the book of Ecclesiastes in
detail, while giving a brief introduction to the Old Testament wisdom
literature. A number of representative passages from Ecclesiastes will be
studied in depth to give students the opportunity for translation and careful
exegesis. Lectures will treat the wisdom literature in general, as well as
giving an orientation to the books of Job and Proverbs in particular, as a
context for closer discussion of topics pertaining to Ecclesiastes
(introductory issues; themes, trends and structure; history of interpretation;
reading strategies; Ecclesiastes and postmodernity; Ecclesiastes and
education.) Attention will be given to the development of exegetical skills.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have demonstrated: (1)
a fundamental knowledge of the Old Testament wisdom literature; (2) an
acquaintance with the books of Job and Proverbs; (3) a sound knowledge of the
overall shape of Ecclesiastes and its literary forms and thematic content; (4)
an ability to reflect upon and evaluate the theological issues raised by the
book of Ecclesiastes and to discern their implications for Christian faith and
practice; (5) an enhanced competence in basic Hebrew, as well as in exegetical
and hermeneutical skills; (6) an appreciation of different approaches to
reading biblical texts and how such approaches may help readers to work out
what texts "mean" and what they "do"; (7) an appreciation of how Ecclesiastes
relates to issues in life and education in postmodern society.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The Old Testament wisdom literature in general and the
book of Ecclesiastes address questions of meaning in life and the challenges of
such things as undeserved suffering, unfair distribution of resources, work,
wealth, poverty, and the seeming absence of God. In addition, the course will
help students think about different ways of engaging with Scripture, both for
themselves and as they minister to others.
COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet twice weekly, four hours per session, for
five weeks. After the first meeting, Hebrew translation will be required for
each session.
REQUIRED READING: