OT501
Goldingay
OT501: PENTATEUCH. John Goldingay.


DESCRIPTION:

The course studies the origin and historical value of Genesis to Deuteronomy; the different blocks of "law" and the principles they embody; the books as a narrative with a plot, characters, and themes; and their significance for Christian faith, life, and ministry.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
By the end of the course students should have

COURSE FORMAT:
The course meets twice weekly for four-hour blocks. Most blocks will require specific reading of the biblical text and other preparation. The classroom time will then combine lectures, work in groups of four, and plenary discussion. The course is thus not primarily lecture-based; it emphasizes collaborative learning and students need to be willing to be committed to working together with other students. Students should also note that the issues involved in studying the Pentateuch are particularly complex; if they have undertaken no Old Testament study before, they might be advised first to study Writings or Prophets.

REQUIRED READING:
Students will not be required to possess any books except an NRSV and a copy of the course reader.

RECOMMENDED READING:
Brueggemann, W. Genesis. Atlanta: Knox, 1982.

Frankel, E. The Five Books of Miriam: A Woman's Commentary on the Torah. San Francisco: Harper, 1996.

Fretheim, T. Exodus. Atlanta: Knox, 1991.

Goldingay, J. After Eating the Apricot. Carlisle, UK: Paternoster, 1996.

Hartley, J. E. Leviticus. Dallas: Word, 1992.

Miles, J. God: A Biography. New York: Knopf/London: Simon Schuster, 1995.

Olson, D. T. Numbers. Louisville: Knox, 1996.

Wright, C. J. H. Deuteronomy. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson/Carlisle, UK: Paternoster, 1996.

ASSIGNMENTS:
  1. Attendance at lectures, with a pass-fail exam for students who have to miss more than one four-hour block.

  2. Preparation for lectures, with submission of a file of preparation notes to be graded pass-fail.

  3. 15-20 page reflection paper.

PREREQUISITES:
None, but see under course format.

RELATION TO CURRICULUM:
Meets M.Div. core requirement in Old Testament "a" (OTA).

FINAL EXAMINATION: No.