THEO2111 Pentateuch

This topic provides an overview of the content and major themes of the first five books of the Bible. It includes a detailed exegetical study of selected texts from the Pentateuch, an exploration of the composition of these books, the history of interpretation and the various interpretive approaches taken to the text.

In this topic students will:

• Gain an appreciation of the nature and the content of major portions of the Pentateuch, its literary composition and the impact of this on the theological understanding of the text
• Become aware of the major issues involved in a critical study of the Pentateuch
• Develop their exegetical skills
• Appreciate the meaning and significance of the Pentateuch within the Hebrew Scriptures
• Be aware of the significance of the Pentateuch for contemporary contexts

1. Demonstrate the ability to formulate and communicate ideas, both verbally and in writing
2. Demonstrate critical reading of a range of texts from Genesis to Deuteronomy
3. Demonstrate the ability to identify the critical and methodological issues surrounding the study of the Pentateuch
4. Demonstrate exegetical skills in interpreting Pentateuchal texts
5. Demonstrate the ability to discus, interpret and evaluate the secondary literature on the Pentateuch
6. Demonstrate hermeneutical sensitivity to the implications of the study of the Pentateuch