Year
2017
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 2-hour seminar weekly
Enrolment not permitted
1 of THEO2104, THEO2111 has been successfully completed
Assessment
Assignment(s), Tutorial presentation, Tutorial participation
Topic description
This topic examines content and major themes of the first five books of the Bible. It includes a detailed exegetical study of selected texts from the Pentateuch, and a critical analysis of the composition of these books, the history of interpretation and the various interpretive approaches taken to the text.
Educational aims
In this topic students will:

  • analyse 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

  • examine and review the major issues involved in a critical study of the Pentateuch

    develop advanced exegetical skills

  • examine the meaning and significance of the Pentateuch within the Hebrew Scriptures

  • evaluate the role of the prophetic literature in understanding a range of theological messages, in both ancient and contemporary contexts
Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic students should be able to demonstrate:

  • advanced critical skills in the presentation of argument, communication of ideas, and quality of discussion

  • advanced critical reading of a range of texts from Genesis - Deuteronomy

  • the ability to evaluate methodological issues surrounding the study of the Pentateuch critically

  • an advanced understanding of exegesis and the application of skills to a range of texts

  • critical engagement with the secondary literature on the Pentateuch and the ability to critically evaluate that material

  • hermeneutical sensitivity to the implications of the study of the Pentateuch