INTERPRETING THE
OLD TESTAMENT
Course Summary
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This unit examines the formation, content, background, storyline, main themes and literature of the Protestant Old Testament canon to facilitate its faithful interpretation for and communication to diverse contemporary audiences.
Students critically analyse the three worlds of the biblical text, developing an informed theory of interpretation and engaging with various perspectives and methodologies. Special focus is given to the cultivation of methods and skills for reading and communicating the various genres within this corpus.
Learning Outcomes
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At the end of this unit students will be able to:
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Analyse contemporary issues and perspectives in Old Testament interpretation, with reference to the world behind, within, and in front of the biblical text
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Examine the formation, content, background, storyline, main themes and literature of the Protestant Old Testament canon
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Critically apply the insights from contextual and comparative studies to the interpretation of various Old Testament genres
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Creatively communicate clear and coherent interpretations of various Old Testament genres to diverse audiences
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COURSE CONTENT
1. Introduction to the unit; why study the OT?
2. Interpreting and communicating the Old Testament
3. Old Testament contexts; the Old Testament canon
3. Exegetical approaches which focus on the world behind the text
4. Genesis
4. Exegetical approaches which focus on the world within the text
5. Exodus
5. Exegetical approaches which focus on the world in front the text
6. Leviticus – Deuteronomy
6. How to write a biblical theme paper
7. Joshua, Judges and Ruth
8. 1 Samuel – 2 Kings
9. 1 and 2 Chronicles, Ezra-Nehemiah, Esther
10. Psalms
11. Wisdom Literature
12. Prophets