Course Summary

Exodus, Joshua, Judges, Isaiah, and Obadiah

The overarching goal for this course is proficiency in applying exegetical and hermeneutical principles with reference to books of The Torah and The Prophets.  Primary attention is given to historico-grammatical exegesis and underlying theological and historical significance of select biblical books. The course is intended for upper division B.R.S. students.  It is organized in three modules: (1) Exodus, (2) Joshua and Judges, and (3) Isaiah and Obadiah. 3 semester hours of undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: BRS 125 Exegesis of the Hebrew Scriptures.  Not open to students with credit for BRS 20.

Objectives

1.  Analyze a selection of Old Testament books with a view toward establishing their unique contributions to the corpus of scripture 

2.  Employ sound exegetical and hermeneutical principles to analyze the significance of select Old Testament compositions for Israel and for modern Christians

3.  Demonstrate the impact of culture, politics, religion, and social practices on the life of Israel

Credit. Credit for the course requires a score of 70% or greater on three multiple-choice examinations and two exegesis papers. Each of these graded elements counts 20% toward the course grade.  A sample multiple-choice exam problem is given below.

The book of Joshua is organized (A) around central events that describe how Canaan was possessed by Israel, (B) chronologically, giving fairly equal space to each of two phases in the leader's life, (C) topically according to major subjects such as the role of priests, prophets, and judges.

Resources

Bible in any English translation. The New International Version is recommended, as exam questions reflect the wording of this translation.

Select e-books are available in the Electronic Collection without cost to the student.  If hard copy substitutes are desired, please consider the following: 

Amit, Yairah. Reading Biblical Narratives: Literary Criticism and the Hebrew Bible. Fortress Press, 2001. 204 pages. $25. ISBN: 978-0800632809

Dorsey, David A. The Literary Structure of the Old Testament: A Commentary on Genesis-Malachi. Baker Academic, 2004. 330 pages. $32.14. ISBN: 978-0801027932

Access to commentaries is expected. A list of recommended commentaries, with appropriate substitutes for hard copy and online reading, are found under Resources on the Course Menu.