The Prophetic Literature (BA3300C)

Content

This unit examines the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. Attention will be given to the phenomenon of Israelite prophecy in its ancient Near Eastern context. The prophetic writings will be considered in their diverse historical settings, forms, messages, and theologies, through a range of methodological approaches. The unit will also explore the relationship of these texts to other biblical literature and their ongoing reception.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

Two Biblical Studies units at second level.

Pedagogy

Each three-hour session consists of two hours of interactive lectures and a one hour tutorial (in each case, presented in modes appropriate for face-to-face or online learning contexts).

Indicative Bibliography

• Bartholomew, Craig G., and Heath Thomas. The Minor Prophets: A Theological Introduction. Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2023.
• Bergsma, John Sietze, and Brant James Pitre. A Catholic Introduction to the Bible: The Old Testament. San Francisco: Ignatius, 2018.
• Chalmers, Aaron. Interpreting the Prophets. London: SPCK, 2015.
• Cook, Stephen L., John T. Strong, and Steven Shawn Tuell. The Prophets: Introducing Israel’s Prophetic Writings. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2022.
• Moberly, R. W. L. Prophecy and Discernment. Cambridge Studies in Christian Doctrine 14. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2006.
• Nissinen, Martti. Prophets and Prophecy in the Ancient Near East. Second edition. Atlanta: SBL, 2019
• O’Brien, Julia M., ed. The Oxford Handbook of the Minor Prophets. New York: Oxford University Press, 2021.
• Seitz, C. R. Prophecy and Hermeneutics: Toward a New Introduction to the Prophets. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2007.
• Sharp, C. J., ed. The Oxford Handbook of the Prophets. New York: Oxford University Press, 2016.
• VanGemeren, Willem A. Interpreting the Prophetic Word: An Introduction to the Prophetic Literature of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2010.

Assessment