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THL304 The Pentateuch (8)

Abstract

This subject is a detailed investigation of the five books of the Pentateuch (Torah: Genesis to Deuteronomy). It examines the history of and contemporary perspectives on the Pentateuch along two main lines: detailed exploration of various Pentateuchal texts and the study of critical developments in Pentateuchal scholarship. Exegetical and interpretive competence is further developed and refined through the critical review and creative application of historical, socio-cultural, literary and ideological methods of analysis to a range of texts in the Pentateuch.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
InternalCanberra Campus
InternalUnited Theological College
DistanceCanberra Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: THL304
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Theology

Assumed Knowledge

THL105 and either THL202 or THL209

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the Pentateuch as a whole
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the structure and composition of each book in the Pentateuch
  • be able to demonstrate familiarity with critical scholarship regarding the development and composition of the Pentateuch
  • be able to demonstrate knowledge of the distinguishing characteristics of, and relationships between, oral and written sources
  • be able to discuss in a critical way issues raised by archaeology and historiography in relation to the Pentateuch
  • be able to demonstrate advanced interpretive skills in reading Pentateuchal texts
  • demonstrate self-guided learning, including research, writing and communication skills

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • Compositional and rhetorical features of each book in the Pentateuch
  • Key developments in the history of Pentateuchal scholarship
  • Scholarly debate regarding oral and written sources of the Pentateuch
  • Distinctive theological perspectives within the Pentateuch
  • Law codes and their functions in Israelite narratives
  • Archaeology and historiography in the study of the Pentateuch
  • Covenantal membership, identity and ethnicity
  • Symbol, metaphor and meaning in the Pentateuch
  • The relationship between the Pentateuch and other parts of the Old Testament
  • Recent interpretive approaches in relation to the Pentateuch
  • Exegesis and interpretation of Pentateuchal texts

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The information contained in the 2016 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 06 September 2016. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.