DESCRIPTION:

The primary goal of this course is to develop exegetical skills through an exegetical study of the Hebrew text of the book of Micah, in light of its particular contextual aspects. Towards this goal, the text will be analyzed using the methodological principles of concept, form, historical, redaction, and text criticism. Specific attention will be given to systematizing various aspects of the exegetical analysis and discerning these aspects in modern writings.

Exegetical skills are basic to thorough interpretation of biblical texts in ministry. 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 in two-hour sessions for lectures and discussions.

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

Mays, J. L. Micah. OTL. Philadelphia: Westminster, 1976.

McComiskey, T. E., ed. The Minor Prophets: An Exegetical and Expository Commentary. Vol. 2. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1993.

Wolff, H. W. Micah. Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1990.

Other books and articles on library reserve.

See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office.

Jacobs, Mignon R. Conceptual Coherence of the Book of Micah. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 2001.

Mays, J. L. and P. J. Achtemeier, eds. Interpreting the Prophets. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1987.

Rad, G. von. The Message of the Prophets. New York: Harper & Row, 1972.

Westermann, C. Basic Forms of Prophetic Speech. Louisville: Westminster/John Knox, 1991.

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 book of Micah. The final grade will be based on attendance, class participation, exegetical analysis of assigned passages, a mid-term exam, and an exegetical paper.

LG502.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Old Testament "B" (OTBE).

None.