DESCRIPTION:

A close reading of the Song of Songs and Ecclesiastes (in English translation) in their ancient Near Eastern and canonical contexts. The course will also situate our interpretation of these books within their history of interpretation with an emphasis on recent readings of the books. Attention will also be given to issues of interpretive methodology, particularly literary analysis and biblical theology.

Song of Songs and Ecclesiastes address issues of love and death, two of the most powerful aspects of human existence. Upon completing the course, students will have a sound grasp of the books' interpretation and place in the canon. They will also understand how they relate to crucial issues (love, sex, marriage, death, and meaning in life) facing them and those to whom they minister.

The course will meet daily for four-hour sessions, Monday-Friday, for two weeks (July 24-August 4).

Allender, D. and T. Longman III. Bold Purpose. Tyndale House, 1998.

Allender, D. and T. Longman III. Intimate Allies. Tyndale House, 1995.

Pope, M. H. Song of Songs. The Anchor Bible. Doubleday, 1977, pp. 1-229

Smedes, L. B. Sex for Christians. Eerdmans, 1994.

Bartholomew, C. Rereading Ecclesiastes. Editrice Pontifico Instituto Bibblico, 1999.

Fox, M. A Time to Build Up and a Time to Tear Down. Eerdmans, 1999.

Keel, O. The Song of Songs. Westminster/John Knox.

Longman, T. III. Ecclesiastes. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1998.

Murphy, R. The Song of Songs. Hermeneia. Fortress, 1990.

1. A paper (15 to 20 pages) on one of three topics: (1) the use of one or the other book in pastoral care; (2) a case study in which one or the other book has specific relevance for pastoral care; and (3) exegetical study of a particular passage from the Song of Songs or Ecclesiastes.

2. Weekly exams on that week's reading and content. First week: Ecclesiastes. Second week: Song of Songs.

None.

Elective.

The second weekly exam will serve as final exam.