920-147 Introduction to the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament)

Credit Points

Coordinator

Prerequisites

Special entry conditions apply (see above).

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

The subject will introduce students to the literature and history of ancient Israel, and to exegetical method and procedure through the use of selected texts from the Hebrew Bible (often called the old testament). Topics will be selected from the following areas: the diversity of Hebrew traditions, the possible relationships between Hebrew traditions and the history of Israel, an Introduction to modern schools of study, an introduction to the Pentateuch, an introduction to pre-exilic prophecy, Israel's world-view. Students who complete this subject should be able to: understand the diversity of the traditions in the Hebrew Bible; exegete selected texts; critically evaluate aspects of the world-view of ancient Israel.

Assessment

One essay or exegesis of 2000 words and a two-hour examination.

Prescribed Texts

• Boadt L, Reading the Old Testament: an Introduction. New York Paulist 1984.
• Campbell A F, The Study Companion to Old Testament Literature. Collegeville MN 1992.