Psalms: Community, Spirituality and Prayer (BA3704S)

Content

A study of the Psalms in the life and worship of Israel, with particular attention given to the literary types of psalms and the shaping of the Psalter. Introduction to Hebrew poetry and detailed exegetical study of selected psalms. Exploration of the psalms in personal and communal spiritual practice will include: psalms in the use of ritual in pastoral care (individual and corporate); psalms as a reflective and creative resource in forming responses to life’s challenges and celebrations.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

BA1001S Introducing the Hebrew Bible or equivalent

Pedagogy

Engagement with learning materials and discussion in forums utilizing the facilities of ARK

Indicative Bibliography

• Alter, R. The Art of Biblical Poetry. New York: Basic, 1985.
• Alter, R. The Book of Psalms. New York/London: W.W. Norton & Co, 2007.
• Anderson, B.W. Out of the Depths. 3rd ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2000.
• Broyles, C.C. Psalms. NIV Commentary. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1999.
• Craigie, P.C. Psalms 1-50. Waco, TX: Word, 1983.
• Craven, T. The Book of Psalms. Message of Biblical Spirituality 6; Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1992.
• Goldingay, J. Psalms. 3 Vols; Grand Rapids: Baker, 2006, 2008.
• Jacobson, R. A. (ed.) Soundings in the Theology of the Psalms: perspectives and methods in contemporary scholarship. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2011.
• Mays, J. The Lord Reigns. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1994.
• Mays, J. Preaching and Teaching the Psalms. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2006.
• Reid, S.B. (ed.) Psalms and Practice: worship, virtue and authority. Collegeville MI: Liturgical Press, 2001.
• Waltke, Bruce, Houston, James and Moore, Erica. The Psalms as Christian Lament: A Historical Commentary, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans, 2014

Assessment