DESCRIPTION:

The primary aim of this course is an exegetical study of the Hebrew text of selected psalms of the book of Psalms, in light of their genres. Towards this aim, the text will be analyzed using the methodological principles of concept, form, historical, redaction, and text criticism. Specific attention will be given to systematization of the various aspects of the exegetical analysis in light of contemporary concerns.

Exegetical skills are basic to thorough interpretation of biblical texts in ministry and spiritual growth. Such skills enable informed evaluation of commentaries and other English translations, and the use of exegetical results as the basis of theological and hermeneutical reflections.

The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions for lectures and discussions.

Craigie, Peter C. Psalms 1-50. Word Biblical Commentary. Waco: Word Books, 1983.

Elliger, K. and W. Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1990.

Gerstenberger, E. S. Psalm: With an Introduction to Cultic Poetry. Part 1. FOTL 14. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1988.

Kraus, H-J. Psalms 60-150: A Commentary. Trans. Hilton C. Oswald. Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1989.

Pleins, J. David. The Psalms: Songs of Tragedy, Hope, and Justice. Maryknoll: Orbis, 1993.

Waltke, Bruce K. and M. O' Connor. An Introduction to Biblical Hebrew Syntax. Winona Lake, IN: Eisenbrauns, 1990.

Willims, Ronald J. Hebrew Syntax: An Outline. 2nd. Edition. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1990.

Various articles and chapters on reserve.

Kraus, H-J. Theology of the Psalms. Trans. Hilton C. Oswald. Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1989.

Mays, James Luther. Psalms. Interpretation. Louisville: John Knox Press, 1994.

Reid, Stephen Breck. Listening in: A Multicultural Reading of the Psalms. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1997.

Sarna, Nahum M. On the Book of Psalms: Exploring the Prayers of Ancient Israel. New York: Schocken Books, 1993.

Weekly preparation is essential for successful completion of this course. This preparation will include: reading assignments, translation and exegetical analysis of assigned passages. When announced, exegetical analysis will be submitted as demonstration of students' application of exegetical methods and understanding of the various psalms. The final grade will be based on attendance, class participation, exegetical analysis of assigned psalms, a mid-term exam, and an exegetical paper (12-15 pages).

LG502.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Old Testament "c" (OTCE).

None.