The Pentateuch

THL304

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.

Duration

One Semester

Availability

Semester 1 every even year

Subject Points

8

Core/Elective

Elective

Delivery Mode

On site at St Francis College Milton; or Externally – log in to listen and participate or view the lecture via video later.

Prerequisites

THL105 and either THL202 or THL209 recommended

Dozeman, T.B., (2017), The Pentateuch: Introducing the Torah.  ISBN 9780800699482

The year of publication and ISBN given corresponds to the copy placed in Closed Reserve at the Roscoe Library; there may be other valid ISBNs that differ because of a different publisher or format. Please contact your lecturer or the Roscoe Library staff to confirm text before purchasing. If purchasing, we recommend that you use booko.com.au.

Prescribed Texts

  1. Couples in the Torah 30%

  2. Source Comparison of texts from the Pentateuch 30%

  3. Exegetical Paper 40%

Assessments

Content

This subject will cover the following topics:

  • Texts of the Pentateuch/Torah

  • Formation and Composition of the Pentateuch/Torah

  • Theologies in the Pentateuch/Torah

  • Priestly Code and its function in Israel

  • The place of the Pentateuch/Torah in the Old Testament/Tanakh

  • Critical Scholarship

  • Interpretation of biblical narrative

  • Recent developments in exegetical method

  • Covenantal membership and ethnicity

  • Symbol, metaphor and meaning

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.