Content

This unit introduces elements of theory and practice in biblical interpretation for students who cannot work with Hebrew or Greek. Students will learn about various interpretative methods and approaches, including the principles of Lutheran hermeneutics. Students will apply these elements to the interpretation of passages from the Old and New Testaments, with the aid of dictionaries and commentaries.

Unit code: BS1105L

Unit status: Archived (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Undergraduate Level 1

Unit discipline: Biblical Studies

Delivery Mode: Online

Proposing College: Australian Lutheran College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Identify and explain key elements and goals of several interpretive methods and approaches in biblical studies

2.

Use basic skills and interpretative approaches that engage the ‘three worlds’ of the biblical text

3.

Examine biblical texts using a range of hermeneutical approaches, including the principles of Lutheran hermeneutics

4.

Demonstrate basic abilities in reading biblical texts as having contemporary relevance

Unit sequence

BA1001L Old Testament Introduction and/or BN2002L New Testament Introduction desirable.

Pedagogy

This unit combines asynchronous student engagement with unit materials and weekly one-hour tutorials. Emphasis is placed on student engagement with primary texts using a range of interpretative methods and approaches, so students learn and acquire of basic analytical skills for interpreting the bible.

Indicative Bibliography

  • Day, Linda, and Carolyn Pressler, eds. Engaging the Bible in a gendered world: an introduction to feminist biblical interpretation. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox, 2006.
  • Gorman, Michael. Elements of biblical exegesis: a basic guide for students and ministers. Rev. ed. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2009.
  • Jasper, David. A short introduction to hermeneutics. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2004.
  • McKenzie, Steven L., and Stephen R. Haynes, eds. To each its own meaning: an introduction to biblical criticisms and their application, revised and expanded. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox, 1999.
  • Porter, Stanley E., and Matthew R. Malcolm. The future of biblical interpretation: responsible plurality in biblical hermeneutics. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2013.
  • Strauss, Mark L. How to read the Bible in changing times: understanding and applying God's word today. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2011. [ALC Library also holds an electronic resource]
  • Tate, Randolph W. Biblical interpretation: an integrated approach. 3rd ed. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2008.
  • Trible, Phyllis. Texts of terror: literary-feminist readings of biblical narrative. Philadelphia, PA: Fortress, 1984.
  • Walsh, Jerome T. Old Testament narrative: a guide to interpretation. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox, 2009.
  • Wengert, Timothy J. Word of life: introducing Lutheran hermeneutics. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress, 2019.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Exegetical Essay

Exegetical Essay An interpretative analysis of a biblical text employing a method and approach of choice

2000 50.0
Essay

Article explaining the principles and concepts the Lutheran use to read and apply the Bible

800 20.0
Essay

Essay outlining a method; its objectives; assessing its strengths and weaknesses and its suitability to the student’s context

1200 30.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 26 Sep, 2019

Unit record last updated: 2020-10-07 14:12:58 +1100