DESCRIPTION:

This course investigates the types of spirituality to be found in the Psalms (NRSV). It is primarily descriptive, but the normative value of the material will be broached.

Christians down the ages have embraced the book of Psalms and found it a mirror and manual for their own experience as believers. The course provides an opportunity to appreciate in turn the spiritual magnetism of this book.

The class will meet for two two-hour sessions per week for lectures and discussion.

Broyles, C. C. The Conflict of Faith and Experience in the Psalms. JSOT Supplement 52. Sheffield: JSOT Press 1989.

Green, B. Like a Tree Planted: An Exploration of the Psalms and Parables Through Metaphor. Collegeville: The Liturgical Press, 1997.

Zenger, C. A God of Vengeance? Understanding the Psalms of Divine Wrath. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1996.

Also material specified in the syllabus.

Allen, L. C. Psalms. Word Biblical Themes. Waco: Word, 1987.

Craven, T. The Book of Psalms. Message of Biblical Spirituality 6. Collegeville: The Liturgical Press, 1992.

Weems, A. Psalms of Lament. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1995.

Wolff, H. H. Anthropology of the Old Testament. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1974.

Reading of assigned literature before class and writing of an exegetical paper with emphasis on spirituality.

None.

Elective.

Yes.