DESCRIPTION: This course is an overview of the third major division of the
Hebrew Bible known as the Writings (Psalms, Job, Proverbs, Ruth, Song of Songs,
Ecclesiastes, Lamentations, Esther, Daniel, Ezra-Nehemiah, and Chronicles).
Attention will be given to historical, literary, and theological concerns in
relation to these biblical texts and in relation to Christian life and ministry
today.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this course will have
demonstrated (1) knowledge and understanding of the various books that comprise
the Writings; (2) understanding of the diverse literary features of these
books; (3) understanding of the historical and cultural situations of the
books; (4) ability in interpreting and engaging with very different biblical
texts; (5) insight into the nature of the Bible both as human word and holy
Scripture; (6) appreciation of new ways of reading Scripture, particularly in a
postmodern world; (7) enthusiasm for reading the Bible; (8) ability to use the
Bible in a variety of ways in their ministries; (9) movement towards a deeper
obedience to Scripture in their own lives.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The section of the Hebrew Bible known as the Writings
contains a rich diversity of literature that witnesses to the presence and
seeming absence of God in a wide range of contexts, both for individuals and
for communities. Engagement with this material and its varied portrayals of
God, humanity, and the world facilitates engagement with diverse experiences of
God's presence and seeming absence for individuals and communities in today's
world.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet daily in four-hour sessions for two weeks
for lecture, discussion and other learning activities.
REQUIRED READING: