This class will investigate and apply the skills and principles necessary for sound interpretation of the biblical text. Focus will be on the balance of theory and practice. Attention will be paid to the history of interpretation, general and genre-based interpretive principles, the interpreter in the interpretive enterprise, and the role of hermeneutics in applying the text correctly to one’s (contemporary) audience.

This course is designed to study the history of the Ancient Near East, the cultures of those lands, or the material assets left behind that shed light on various portions of the Bible. Sources for this information include selected Biblical passages and their associated literatures, selected Ancient Near Eastern texts, and archaeological remains. The class may be conducted on site in the Land of the Bible.

A study of the physical features of the land of the Bible, stressing geographical factors affecting settlement and communication in the various regions. Preparatory map study and class previews provide the background to each trip in the field. Relevant archeological, historical, and Biblical material is correlated with sites, roads, and features in each region. Regions studied and visited include Galilee, Golan Heights, Judah, Samaria, Negev, Shephelah, Jordan and Jezreel Valleys, Benjamin, Sharon Plain, and Philistia. Courses are taken at Jerusalem University College.

An exegetical study of the book of Genesis in its cultural and historical setting, with attention to its critical problems, theological content, literary features, and modern exposition. As part of this course, each student is expected to exegete and teach one passage.

An exegetical study of Romans emphasizing the theological content and development of the book’s argument. It seeks to understand the message in light of its first century audience and significance for today’s audience.

A study of the religious institutions, cultural practices, natural beliefs, geographical distinctive and chronological dimensions as they interplay with the Bible. Emphasis is placed on understanding background as it develops significance to the meaning.

A rigorous study of the text with special consideration of the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. Study will be conducted concerning the book’s historical background. Additionally, students are challenged to apply lessons to present-day situation. As part of this course, each student is expected to exegete and teach one passage.

Introduces basic Greek morphology, grammar and syntax using appropriate tools to aid in accurate interpretation of the New Testament. Focus will be on developing the student’s ability to interpret Scripture through grammatical-theological methods, with an emphasis on accurate, in-depth interpretation the New Testament from the Greek text.

563                  Seminar in the Wisdom and Poetic Books
564                  Seminar in the Major Prophets
565                  Seminar in the Minor Prophets
566                  Seminar in the Historical Books
571                  Seminar in the Gospels
572                  Seminar in the Epistles and Revelation
590                  Seminar in the Acts
591                  Seminar in the Matthew
592                  Seminar in the Pauline Epistles
593                  Seminar in the Prision Epistles
594                  Seminar in the General Epistles
595                  Seminar in the Johannine Literature
596                  Seminar in the Synoptic Gospels

Examines the four gospels as found in the NT canon. Emphasis is on the nature and content of the gospels themselves, critical and introductory issues in the study of each, and the theological contributions each makes to NT Studies. Attention will be paid to both the life of Christ as presented in each of the gospels, but also some of the unique contributions each writer bring to the study of Jesus and our understanding of his life and ministry.

Surveys each of the Pauline and general epistles along with the Apocalypse, highlighting historical background and setting, authorship and authenticity, biblical and theological content, and contribution to New Testament thought.

Taken in the fall, this class will lay the research groundwork for the written portion which will take place in the spring. Approval must be granted by a concentration advisor. Prerequisite: This class is a prerequisite to and taken in conjunction with BS 598 Thesis Writing.

Taken in the spring, typically the year of graduation, this class is taken subsequent to BS 597 Guided Thesis Research. See description of thesis option under Program Requirements. For more information, see Dean of Graduate School or Chair of Bible Division.

This special area of Biblical investigation is selected with the guidance and supervision of the Dean of Graduate Studies, the Department Chair, and the instructor who directs the study. Students are expected to collect, analyze, and present the findings of their research in a scholarly way. Regular written reports, complete bibliography, and critical paper are required. Attendance at regular seminars may also be required.

A study of the content of the first five books of the Bible with special emphasis on the foundational nature of these books for the rest of the Bible.

The composition and content of Joshua through Esther is studied within their chronological, political and geographical settings.  The class will examine important theological themes and areas of criticism related to these books.

An examination of the poetic and wisdom books of the Old Testament.  Not only will the composition and content of Job through Song of Solomon be studied but the students will examine how books handle a broad range of human emotions and feelings.

A study of the composition and content of the Major and Minor prophets of the Old Testament with special emphasis to how they fit into the broad swipe of Old Testament history.