Introduction to Hebrew Bible

The Hebrew Bible, called the Tanakh in Judaism and Old Testament in Christianity, is a diverse anthology of texts including narrative, law, prophetic poetry, and wisdom literature. Its many voices convey different messages, often disagreeing with one another and with other voices now lost to time. It has no single, “correct” meaning, but has always meant many things—to the people who wrote and compiled it as well as those who have continued to interpret and apply it.

This course will explore the interpretation of Hebrew biblical texts in their ancient social, literary, and historical contexts as well as their reception in later periods. By surveying a wide range of questions, interpretations, and translations, students will discover the diversity of traditions it has generated. Liberatory and anti-oppressive readings will be emphasized, showing how intersectional feminist, postcolonial, and queer methodologies provide alternatives to readings that justify violence as the will of God.

The course will include readings and two weekly components: one hour of pre-recorded, asynchronous lecture and two hours of synchronous online discussion. Assessment will be based on brief reading responses, discussion participation, and an open-format culminating research and reflection project. Intended for MDiv and MASC students.

This course falls primarily within the following SKSM Thresholds: 2) Prophetic Witness & Work 3) Sacred Text and Interpretation and 4) History of Dissenting Traditions and Thea/ological Quest.

Enrollment max: 20. Auditors excluded.