Content

This unit is an introduction to the literature of the Old Testament. It examines matters of canon and translation, the forms of Old Testament literature, historical and theological issues. Texts discussed will deal with creation, flood, law, covenant, kingship, exodus, exile, prophecy, monotheism, divine compassion and justice. The diversity of form and theology within the Old Testament will be stressed and attention given to the relation of interpretation to faith in this context. Students are introduced to the exegesis of Old Testament texts.

Unit code: BA0109T

Unit status: Archived (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Diploma

Unit discipline: Old Testament

Delivery Mode: Online

Proposing College: Trinity College Theological School

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Learning outcomes

1.

Describe the main historical, cultural, and theological features of the Old Testament world

2.

Locate and use appropriate resources for biblical studies in the library and on the internet

3.

Situate a particular text within its theological and literary setting, utilizing secondary resources

4.

Exegete a biblical text using primary and secondary resources

Pedagogy

Lectures, readings, tutorials (or online discussion forums), comprehension quizzes, and peer review activities

Indicative Bibliography

  • NRSV Study Bible such as New Oxford Annotated Bible or Harper Collins Study Bible (recommended for purchase)
  • Boadt, L. 2nd Ed. Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction, Revised and updated by Clifford and Harrington, New York: Paulist, 2012
  • Brettler, M. Z. How to Read the Bible, Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society, 2005.
  • Collins, J. Introduction to the Hebrew Bible, Minneapolis: Fortress, 2014.
  • Davis, E. Getting Involved with God: Rediscovering the Old Testament, Cambridge: Cowley, 2001.
  • Dally, S. Myths from Mesopotamia: Creation, The Flood, Gilgamesh, and Others, Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2000.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Written Examination

Exam - equivalent 1000 words

0 30.0
Exegesis

Exegetical essay of 1000 words

0 30.0
Multiple Choice Quizzes or Tests

Quiz - equivalent of 250 words

0 10.0
Multiple Choice Quizzes or Tests

Quiz - equivalent of 250 words

0 10.0
Forum

Forum - equivalent of 500 words.

0 20.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 19 Oct, 2017

Unit record last updated: 2022-09-07 11:43:10 +1000