DESCRIPTION:

A close reading of the book of Proverbs (in English translation) in its ancient Near Eastern and canonical contexts. The course will also situate our interpretation of this book within its history of interpretation with an emphasis on recent readings of the book. Particular attention will be given to the proper use of the book in the context of pastoral care and counseling. Attention will also be given to issues of interpretive methodology, particularly literary analysis and biblical theology.

Proverbs gives its readers instructions for navigating life with wisdom and avoiding foolishness. According to Proverbs, wisdom leads to life and folly to death. Nothing could be more practical. However, modern readers often apply the book naively and superficially. Upon completing the course, students will have a sound grasp of the book's interpretation and place in the canon. They will also understand how they relate to crucial issues facing them and those to whom they minister.

The course will meet for four-hour sessions, Monday-Friday, for two weeks, July 30-August 10.

Brown, W. P. Character in Crisis: A Fresh Approach to the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament. Eerdmans, 1996.

Crenshaw, J. L. Old Testament Wisdom: An Introduction. Westminster/John Knox, 1998.

Perdue, L. G. Proverbs. Interpretation. Westminster/John Knox, 2000.

Plus at least an additional 300 pages of reading chosen from a commentary listed below under Recommended Reading.

Clifford, R. J. Proverbs. OTL. Westminster/John Knox, 1999.

Fox, M. V. Proverbs 1-9. AB. Doubleday, 2000.

McKane, W. Proverbs: A New Approach. OTL. Westminster, 1970.

Murphy, R. Proverbs. WBC. Nelson, 1998.

Van Leeuwen, R. C. "The Book of Proverbs." The New Interpreter's Bible. Abingdon Press, 1997.

Whybray, R. N. Proverbs. Cambridge University Press, 1994.

1. A paper (15-20 pages) on one of three topics: (1) the use of Proverbs 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 Proverbs. Due September 14, 2001.

2. A final exam given on the last day of class on the lectures and the readings.

Before the first class session: Read either Brown and/or Crenshaw (see Required Readings).

None.

Elective.

Yes.