Presents and in-depth examination of the first five books of the Old Testament with special attention to the development of the Law for and by God s people. It will provide the methodologies needed to study the ancient biblical texts. Theories of authorship and dating will be examined. In particular, the stories of each biblical book will be situated within the history of ancient Israel. Students can demonstrate both sensitivity to various expressions of religious belief in diverse cultures, and a critical understanding of their meaning.
Students can think and write analytically and critically using historical data.
To offer personal reflection on the biblical text in relation to expanded understanding of the text. The Narrative Integrity of the Pentateuch . John Knox Press, 1988. Whybray, R. Norman. Introduction to the Pentateuch .