BA1020 —
Old Testament I: Survey and Method
2nd semester Tuesday evening (Min. No. 6)
Content
This unit will undertake a study of the history and geography of biblical Israel. It will involve a survey of the literature of the Old Testament. It also includes an introduction to the critical methodologies used to explore biblical texts and an application of these to specific texts.
Prerequisites
None
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this unit, it is expected that students will be able to:
- demonstrate a familiarity with the geography of the biblical land and its surrounds
- articulate a knowledge of the history of Israel, 1000 – 63 BCE
- prepare a basic exegesis of a text of the Old Testament
- demonstrate familiarity with the structure of the Old Testament and recognize the main types of biblical literature found there
- examine a text diachronically
- describe the ongoing significance of the text for the Christian community.
Assessment
1500 word exegetical paper (35%); 1500 word essay (35%); one hour written exam (30%)
Bibliography
Anderson, Arnold Albert. Psalms 1,11. NCB. London: Oliphants, 1972.
Brueggemann, Walter. An Introduction to the Old Testament. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2003.
Coggin, Richard. Introducing the Old Testament. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1990.
Collins, John J. Introduction to the Hebrew Bible. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 2004.
Day, John. Psalms. OTG. Sheffield: JSOT, 1990.
Hayes, John H., and Carl R. Holladay. ??Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner’s Handbook.?? 3rd ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2007.
McKenzie Steven L., and M. Patrick Graham, eds. The Hebrew Bible Today: An Introduction to Critical Issues. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1998.
Whybray, Roger N. Introduction to the Pentateuch. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1995.
Students wishing to do some preliminary reading are encouraged to read:
Anderson, Bernhard. The Living World of the Old Testament. 4th ed. London: Longmans, 1988.
Lecturer
Mary Reaburn NDS
