Supervised Reading Unit: Old Testament (BA9424M)

Assessment: 8000 word essay The area my essay will explore is Deutero-Isaiah's anti-idol polemics. The particular text that is central to my inquiry is Isaiah 44, and I will also reference other anti-idol polemics (such as: 40:18-20; 41:6-7; 41:23-24, 29; 42:17; 45:16,20; 46:1-7; 48:5) The one question my essay will address: How do Deutero-Isaiah’s anti-idol polemics contribute to a theology of monotheism (ancient and modern)? I will answer my question by an exegetical exploration of Deutero-Isaiah's anti-idol polemics, defining them via form and rhetorical criticism; and a limited theological and historical inquiry into the development of monotheism in Ancient Israel and particularly the influence of the exilic context on the rhetoric of Deutero-Isaiah towards idols. I will consider Deutero-Isaiah's use of the literary and rhetorical devices of sarcasm, satire, and humour. This investigation will inform my comment on modern implications for a theology of monotheism. The challenges that are inherent within my topic include: the potential size of the inquiry and the possibility of getting bogged down in particular areas; the interdisciplinary nature of the question; various tangents. There may be a lot of debate or historical unknowns on this topic.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate exegetical proficiency in the analysis of particular passages of Isaiah.
2. Define and explain ancient Israelite concepts and theology of idolatry. 3.E xplore the anti-idol polemic using form critical and rhetorical critical categories.
3. Engage with current and classic scholarship on the topic.
4. Engage in theological reflection on Deutero-Isaiah's concept of monotheism against a history of monolatry.
5. Identify and critically assess ancient and modern implications of Deutero-Isaiah's anti-idol polemics in relation to monotheism.