Pre-requisites

None.

Co-requisites

None

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:

Unit Description

The unit commences with an introduction to the nature of the Old Testament and Old Testament text particularly its authenticity, authority and canonicity. The narrative genre of Old Testament literature is identified and the basic hermeneutical principles for interpretation are demonstrated. The structure, content and cultural background of the Pentateuch is outlined with attention given to issues of Mosaic authorship, a JEDP hypothesis and source criticism.

The historical and theological aspects of the primeval prologue, patriarchal history, exodus, Mosaic authorship and priestly code are examined. The history of the people of God is traced from the call of Abraham to the return from exile with emphasis on the theological significance of each event and era.

The characteristics of Hebrew poetry are identified and principles for interpretation demonstrated. The Megilloth, Psalms and Wisdom literature are analysed and contemporary applications drawn.

The role of the prophet in the history of Israel and the interpretation of Old Testament prophetic books is presented and an examination of selected pre-exilic, exilic and post-exilic prophets is undertaken.

Throughout the unit, emphasis is placed upon the need for students to be able to understand the theme of social justice in the Old Testament. Students will also need to explain, analyse and assess the differing views held on various Old Testament issues and to demonstrate competence in discussion of the relevance and continuity of the Old Testament into the New Testament. Appropriate application of the Old Testament to contemporary individual, church and social situations is required.

Teaching Strategies

Teaching strategies include: lectures and tutorials; weekend schools; class discussions; presentation of instructional material in the form of printed documentation, DVD, video and audio tape and online interaction.


Unit offerings

Online: (Every 2nd Year (Odd), Semester 1)
Face to face: (Every 2nd Year (Even), Semester 1)

Please note

The Unit Offerings listed above are a guide only and the timetable for any year is the final authority. The College may vary offerings based on demand, regulatory requirements, continual improvement processes or other conditions.

This unit may be available in different modes of delivery i.e. online and face-to-face as listed above. The unit content will not differ between these modes of delivery. There will possibly be a difference in the schedule and/or the prescribed assessment tasks, however both will cover and assess the same content.