Course Description

The Hebrew Scriptures (known as the “Old Testament” in the Christian world) are at the root of three major world religions—Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Hebrew Scriptures are a collection of fascinating and sometimes confusing stories, poetry, wisdom sayings and inspired visions. While some stories in Hebrew Scriptures are little known outside scholarly circles, others have become commonplace in conversation, e.g. “David vs. Goliath.” Students will explore the history and development of Hebrew Scriptures, thereby acquiring a solid foundation for continuing study and exploration. 

Learning Objectives

By the end of the experience, learners will be able to:

·      Identify parts and origins of the Hebrew Scriptures.

·      Identify the writers and the times of the writings.

·      Compare time periods and explain their significance.

Required Text/Readings

·      Borg, Marcus J. Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Taking the Bible Seriously But not Literally. San Francisco: Harper Collins, 2015.

·      The Bible - in one of the following translations.  (The NRSV: New Revised Standard Version; or the NET:  New English Translation) Online: Bible Gateway https://www.biblegateway.com

Recommended Readings/Handouts

·      The New Interpreter’s Study Bible. Nashville, TN:  Abingdon Press, 2003. 

·      Davis, Kenneth C. Don’t Know Much About the Bible. New York: Harper Collins, 2004.

·      Spong, John Shelby. Re-Claiming the Bible for a Non-Religious World. New York: Harper Collins, 2013.

Recommended Online Resource

·      Audio Bible NIV (Genesis – Revelation) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2tlR3nfzjQ&list=PLHZp_z2RSv22-oT8SQ66ADvEImLMsS8ZD

·      The Bible Project (A collection of short videos on each of the books in the Bible. It can be helpful – be advised the theology is mainstream Christianity)

https://bibleproject.com

Required Handouts (These can be accessed on the Course Handout page in Blackboard, as well as within the modules they are assigned)

·      Module 2: The Documentary Hypothesis

·      Module 3: A Three-Tiered Universe

·      Module 3: Synopsis of the Contents of the TaNaKh

·      Module 4: Who’s Who in the Hebrew Scriptures

·      Module 4: The Old Testament Story Chart

·      Module 5: Divided Monarchy Chart

·      Module 5: Kings-Prophets Chart

Live Class Sessions

All times listed in Central Time

January 2025

1.     Wednesday, Jan 22 – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

2.     Wednesday, Jan 29 – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

February 2025

3.     Wednesday, Feb 5 – No Live Session

4.     Wednesday, Feb 12 – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

5.     Wednesday, Feb 19 – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

6.     Wednesday, Feb 26 – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

March 2025

7.     Wednesday, Mar 5 – No Live Session

8.     Wednesday, Mar 12 – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.