DESCRIPTION:

A study of the books of the third section of the Hebrew scriptures, in English translation, including the Psalms, Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Ruth, Song of Songs, Lamentations, Esther, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and 1-2 Chronicles. Attention will be given to the shape of the books, their content, literary forms, and theological concerns.

Students who complete the course should have gained (1) improved exegetical skills; (2) increased awareness of content and significant introductory matters for each of the books; and (3) insight into theological issues such as worship, prayer, wisdom, and hope for the future.

The class will meet daily for two weeks, July 7- 18, for four hours per day.

Anderson, B. W. Out of the Depths. Rev. ed. Philadelphia: Westminster, 1984.

Davies, P. R. Daniel. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1985.

LaSor, W. S., Hubbard, D. A. and Bush, F. W. Old Testament Survey. 2nd edition. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1996.

Murphy, R. F. The Tree of Life. An Exploration of Biblical Wisdom Literature. 2nd edition. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1996.

Bush, F. W. Ruth, Song of Songs, Esther. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Word, 1996.

Childs, B. S. Introduction to the Old Testament as Scripture. Philadelphia: Fortress.

Goldingay, John E. Daniel. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Word, 1989.

O'Connor, Kathleen M. The Wisdom Literature. Message of Biblical Spirituality, Vol. 6. Wilmington, DE: Michael Glazier, Inc., 1988.

Williamson, H. G. M. Ezra-Nehemiah. Word Biblical Commentary. Dallas: Word, 1985.

(A more extensive bibliography will be provided with the syllabus.)

1. A 10-12 page paper which includes exegesis and theological exposition of a psalm.
   Due August 8.

2. A mid-term exam (take-home).

3. A final exam.

None.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Old Testament "C" (OTC).

Yes.