Content

This unit is an introduction to the diversity of the texts and traditions of the Hebrew Bible. The unit will explore different historical, geographical, literary and traditional contexts of the Hebrew Bible through a detailed exploration of specific texts; introduce modern schools of study, as well as history of research into the Hebrew Bible; and enable students to develop a familiarity with exegetical tools and methods, using problem-based learning.

Unit code: BA1701S

Unit status: Archived (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Undergraduate Level 1

Unit discipline: Old Testament

Delivery Mode: Online

Proposing College: Stirling College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Describe the historical and social world of the Hebrew Bible

2.

Demonstrate a working familiarity with a range of interpretive approaches to the Hebrew Bible

3.

Effectively use the tools for biblical interpretation: lexicons, dictionaries, commentaries, journals, monographs and primary sources

4.

Develop and summarize an awareness of and appreciation for the history of Hebrew Bible research and a variety of interpretive approaches current in biblical scholarship

5.

Apply theological and hermeneutical applications of the Hebrew Bible to their current context

Pedagogy

Online – engagement with learning materials and discussion in forums utilizing the facilities of ARK

Indicative Bibliography

  • Baker, D. Tight fists or open hands? Grand Rapids, William B. Eerdmans, 2009.
  • Birch, B. et al. Theological Introduction to the Old Testament. Nashville, Abingdon, 2005.
  • Broyles, C. (ed). Interpreting the Old Testament: A Guide for Exegesis. Grand Rapids, Baker, 2001.
  • Brueggemann, B. Old Testament Theology: Testimony, Dispute, Advocacy. Minneapolis, Fortress, 1997.
  • Campbell, Antony SJ. Experiencing Scripture. Adelaide: ATF: 2012.
  • Collins, J. A short introduction to the Hebrew Bible. 2nd ed. Minneapolis, Fortress, 2014. (recommended for purchase)
  • Fretheim, T. God & world in the Old Testament. Nashville, Abingdon, 2005.
  • Hanson, P. The People Called. London, Harper & Row, 1986.
  • Matthews, V, & D. Benjamin, Social world of Ancient Israel 1250-587 BCE. Peabody, Hendrickson, 1993.
  • Rogerson, J, & P. Davies. The Old Testament World. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1989.
  • Steussy, M. (ed). Chalice Introduction to the Old Testament. St. Louis, Chalice, 2003.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Exegesis

1750 word exegetical essay

0 50.0
Critical Review

500 word critical reflection on set reading

0 10.0
Essay

1,500 word essay

0 40.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 1 Nov, 2017

Unit record last updated: 2022-10-31 15:54:26 +1100