Major Prophets (BA3400A)

Content

This unit provides a detailed study of the writings of the four “major” prophets of the Old Testament - Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel. The student will gain an overview of the nature of the genre of the prophetic literature and its place in the canon of the Old Testament. The unit will further examine the personalities, historical and cultural background, social setting and theology of the four “major” prophets. Selected passages from the Book of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel will be chosen for exegesis. In its conclusion, the unit will address the reception of the prophetic writings in later Christian and Jewish tradition and address the question of public proclamation of the prophetic message.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

An Old Testament Introduction unit

Pedagogy

The unit will engage students in analysis and theological reflection through the presentation of lectures, readings and engaging discussion

Indicative Bibliography

• Beyer, Bryan E. Encountering the Book of Isaiah: A Historical and Theological Survey. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2007.
• Blekinsopp, Joseph. Opening the Sealed Book: Interpretation of the Book of Isaiah in Late Antiquity. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2006.
• Bullock, C. Hassel. An Introduction to the Old Testament Prophetic Books. Chicago: Moody, 1986.
• Childs, Brevard. The Book of Isaiah. Old Testament Library. Louisville, KY: Westminster Press, 2001.
• Collins, John J. Daniel: A Commentary on the Book of Daniel. Hermeneia. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1993.
• Harrison, R. K. Jeremiah and Lamentations: An Introduction and Commentary. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1973.
• Smith, Gary V. The Prophets as Preachers: An Introduction to the Hebrew Prophets. Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1994.
• VanGemern, Willem A. Interpreting the Prophetic World. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1990.
• Wolf, Herbert M. Interpreting Isaiah: The Suffering and Glory of the Messiah. Grand Rapids: Zordervan, 1985.
• Wright, Christopher J.H. The Message of Ezekiel: A New Heart and a New Spirit. Downers Grove, IL: InterVersity, 2001.
  

Assessment