THL304 The Pentateuch (8)

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.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
On Campus
Canberra Campus
Online
Canberra 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

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Theology

Assumed Knowledge

Students are recommended to have prior knowledge equivalent to or studied THL105 and either THL202 or THL209.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate a critical and informed understanding of issues relating to the interpretation of the Pentateuch;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the structure and composition of each book in the Pentateuch and familiarity with critical scholarship on 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 critically issues raised by archaeology and historiography in relation to the Pentateuch;
  • be able to discuss major theological and ethical themes in the Pentateuch and critically evaluate their contemporary relevance;
  • be able to demonstrate advanced competence in the exegesis and interpretation of biblical texts through critical engagement with primary biblical materials and constructive engagement with secondary literature; and
  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills.

Syllabus

This 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

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: October 2020. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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