AP/RLST 3810 6.00

Ancient Israelite Literature: The Hebrew Bible/Old Testament in Context

The Hebrew Bible/Old Testament is one of the foundational texts of western culture. As such, it has had a history of interpretation and reinterpretation that has lasted for some 2000 years. During this period of time certain – oftentimes mutually contradictory – assumptions about what the text means have become entrenched among the various groups that look to this text as holy scripture and inspirational literature. Indeed, even among those who reject the supposed theological underpinnings of this text, rigid assumptions about what it means or says are common. The major aim of this course is to strip away the layers of interpretation that have been imposed on the text over the millennia, in order to enable the students to approach the text using critical and methodological tools that allow modern readers (1) to attempt to read the Hebrew Bible within the context of its own time and world, and (2) to be aware of the subject nature of their preconceptions. Openness to new ways of understanding and a critical mindset are the only prerequisites necessary.

RELIGIOUS TRADITION(S) COVERED: Judaism

Course Category: Religion, Literature, and the Arts