Introduction to the Hebrew Bible

TH3301, undergraduate level (fulfills requirement for a second theology course)

Taught fall 2008, fall 2009, fall 2010, fall 2011

Description

The course will survey the historical contexts, contents and genres of the Hebrew Bible, which became the Christian Old Testament. Special attention will be paid to the variety of methods of interpretation applied to the texts, including historical-critical (modern), traditional theological (pre-modern), and contemporary-critical (post-modern) methods.

Objectives

By the end of the course the student should be able to:
• demonstrate knowledge of the historical context in which the books of the Old Testament first took shape (and why it matters).
• demonstrate knowledge of the basic history and themes presented in the Old Testament (and why they matter).
• distinguish the variety of perspectives expressed in the Old Testament.
• distinguish the variety of methods of interpretation applied to the Old Testament.
• demonstrate knowledge of theological approaches to the Old Testament as Scripture, particularly in the Catholic tradition.
• articulate informed reflection on the significance of the Old Testament in his or her personal life, faith community, and society.

Required texts

• A study bible based on the NAB (New American Bible), JPS (Jewish Publication Society), or NRSV (New Revised Standard Version) translation.
• Collins, John J. A Short Introduction to the Hebrew Bible. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2007.
• Other texts are available from library reserves or the course website.

Prerequisite

TH2301 "Foundations of Theology" or SMC1314W "Foundation of Reflection: God"