Introduction to the Old Testament
Beginning Tuesday January 12 or 13, 2021
Courses are offered on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings, from 4:00-6:00 p.m.
Course Description:
This course provides a contemporary overview of the Old Testament Canon of Sacred Scripture from a Roman Catholic perspective. A special emphasis will be directed to understanding and utilizing the various aides available to facilitate an accurate interpretation of Scripture. The student will be introduced to the literature, history, and messages of the Old Testament. The student will discover the history of the people of Israel and a picture of Israel’s relationship with God. Yet, the Old Testament is far more than the story of ancient Israel. The material revealed in its pages functions as the theological and moral foundation for three of the world’s major religious traditions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. As such, it has shaped the history of western civilization and continues to influence the world today. Thus, as we study the ancient text we will also consider its impact on ourselves and on people of other cultures today.
Learning Outcomes:
The student will become familiar with the contents of the Old Testament. S/he will learn about the various types of literature therein and will become knowledgeable of the history and theology of ancient Israel. The student will discover the various “themes” found within the OT canon of Scripture. The student will develop effective skills in reading, thinking and listening by exploring (individually) and discussing (cooperatively) major themes and messages of the Old Testament within its historical and cultural context. The student will come to understand the significance of the Old Testament in shaping today’s societies – religiously, historically, economically, politically and socially. S/he will come to realize the relevance of these ancient texts in the contemporary landscape.
Course fee: $300
Course Description:
This course provides a contemporary overview of the Old Testament Canon of Sacred Scripture from a Roman Catholic perspective. A special emphasis will be directed to understanding and utilizing the various aides available to facilitate an accurate interpretation of Scripture. The student will be introduced to the literature, history, and messages of the Old Testament. The student will discover the history of the people of Israel and a picture of Israel’s relationship with God. Yet, the Old Testament is far more than the story of ancient Israel. The material revealed in its pages functions as the theological and moral foundation for three of the world’s major religious traditions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. As such, it has shaped the history of western civilization and continues to influence the world today. Thus, as we study the ancient text we will also consider its impact on ourselves and on people of other cultures today.
Learning Outcomes:
The student will become familiar with the contents of the Old Testament. S/he will learn about the various types of literature therein and will become knowledgeable of the history and theology of ancient Israel. The student will discover the various “themes” found within the OT canon of Scripture. The student will develop effective skills in reading, thinking and listening by exploring (individually) and discussing (cooperatively) major themes and messages of the Old Testament within its historical and cultural context. The student will come to understand the significance of the Old Testament in shaping today’s societies – religiously, historically, economically, politically and socially. S/he will come to realize the relevance of these ancient texts in the contemporary landscape.
Course fee: $300