Content

This unit is the first of a sequence of two that introduces students to some of the tools and perspectives employed in the study and interpretation of the Bible, both Old and New Testaments. While developing interpretive and hermeneutical skills, students will be introduced to the narrative sweep of Scripture, detailing certain key figures and events within the biblical canon, setting biblical books in context and engaging sympathetically with different forms of biblical literature. Students will employ these perspectives to examine the relevance of the Bible today. Together, the two units will introduce students to:

  1. The nature of Biblical Text
  2. An overview of content and the general organization of Biblical texts.
  3. Tools for biblical interpretation such as dictionaries, commentaries and surveys
  4. Interpretive and hermeneutical skills and techniques This first unit focuses on reading and interpreting the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing its narrative ark, particular genres and introducing elementary skills and concepts in biblical interpretation.

Unit code: BS0141W

Unit status: Approved (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Diploma

Unit discipline: Biblical Studies

Delivery Mode: Face to Face

Proposing College: Whitley College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Outline a brief survey of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) including some key events and characters

2.

Identify and describe different types of biblical literature found in the Hebrew Bible

3.

Use tools for Biblical interpretation for selected Hebrew Bible texts including dictionaries, commentaries and surveys

4.

Analyse selected Biblical texts in order to determine their probable authorial intent

5.

Assess the relevance and applicability of selected Biblical texts in relation to personal and contemporary concerns

Unit sequence

This unit is first in a sequence of two units (BS0141W and BS0142W) that together introduce students to the study and interpretation of the Bible. It is expected that students work through these units in sequence.

Pedagogy

Lectures, seminars, tutorials.
The delivery strategy will also utilise field trips and excursions to provide students with the opportunity to explore biblical texts in various contexts and settings.

Indicative Bibliography

  • Brueggemann, W., An Introduction to the Old Testament: The Canon and Christian Imagination. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2003.
  • Campbell, Antony SJ. Experiencing Scripture. Adelaide: ATF, 2012
  • Collins, J. A Short Introduction to the Hebrew Bible. Minneapolis, Fortress, 2004.
  • Coggins, R and J L Houlden (eds.) A dictionary of biblical interpretation. London: SCM, 1990.
  • Finzel, H. Unlocking the Scripture: Three Steps to Personal Bible Study. Colorado Springs, Victor, 2003.
  • Gravett, Sandra L., Karla G. Bohmbach, F. V. Greifenhagen and Donald L. Polaski. An Introduction to the Hebrew Bible: A Thematic Approach. Louisville/London: Westminster John Knox Press, 2008
  • Gorman, M.J., Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for Students and Ministers. Peabody: Hendrickson, rev. edn, 2009.
  • Knight, Douglas A. and Amy-Jill Levine. The Meaning of the Bible: What the Jewish Scriptures and Christian Old Testament Can Teach us. New York: Harper One, 2011
  • Motyer, Alex. Roots: Let The Old Testament Speak. Ross-Shire, Christian Focus, 2009.
  • Smith-Christopher, D., The Old Testament: Our Call to Faith & Justice. Notre Dame: Ave Maria Press, 2007.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Essay

Thematic essay 1500 words

1500 50.0
Exegesis

Exegetical exercise 750 words

750 25.0
Exegesis

Exegetical exercise 750 words

750 25.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 27 Sep, 2019

Unit record last updated: 2019-10-09 14:01:38 +1100