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 via an overview of the story of the people of Israel. The unit will introduce modern schools of study, as well as engage with the history of research into the Hebrew Bible; and enable students to develop a familiarity with exegetical tools and methods.
Unit code: BA8001S
Unit status: Approved (Major revision)
Points: 24.0
Unit level: Postgraduate Foundational
Unit discipline: Old Testament
Proposing College: Stirling College
Show when this unit is running| 1. | Describe and discuss the historical and social world of the Hebrew Bible |
| 2. | Demonstrate competence 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. | Demonstrate a critical awareness of the history of Hebrew Bible research, and critique a range of current scholarly approaches |
| 5. | Analyse and apply theological and hermeneutical applications of the Hebrew Bible to their current context. |
Online with tutorials and recorded material, reading and workbooks.
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, W. 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.
| Type | Description | Word count | Weight (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Critical Review - Response to set reading | Summary and reflection on set reading. |
1000 | 10.0 |
| Tutorial Paper/Seminar Paper - Present and respond to tutorial topics | Students present on a set topic, providing a carefully researched written summary. Final mark is recorded based on the student's presentation and essay as well as their response to the presentations of other students. |
2000 | 40.0 |
| Exegetical Essay | Students choose one set passage as a focus for an exegetical essay, based on skills developed in tutorials. |
3000 | 50.0 |
Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 2 Sep, 2022
Unit record last updated: 2022-09-02 13:41:37 +1000