Pre-requisites: Nil

Subject Description

This subject (along with its sister subject From Israel to Judea) forms a foundation on which all further study of the Old Testament builds.  It is concerned not so much with the critical issues of Old Testament studies, as with the Biblical History as it is recorded in the  Old Testament.  The study is undertaken in the light of the various ancient contexts of the biblical narrative, illustrated by modern archaeological findings.

Aims

• To assist candidates acquire an overall acquaintance with the text of the Old Testament, as one of the two primary documents of biblical studies and Christian ministry;
• To give candidates an overall historical framework within which to interpret the text;
• To ensure that candidates have an appreciation of the appropriate Ancient Near Eastern background (cultural, religious and archaeological) and its significance for Old Testament history;
• To provide candidates with an understanding of major theological themes of the Old Testament and their significance for Christian theology;
• To enable candidates to begin a more detailed exploration of some aspects of Old Testament studies;
• To consider the implications of the Old Testament for Christian life and thought.

Subject Outline:

1. Creation with special reference to Genesis 1-3
2. The Patriarchs in Israel's faith
3. The exodus and the Sinai covenant
4. Conquest and Settlement
5. The rise of the monarchy and the covenant with David
6. Solomon and the division of the Kingdom
7. The origins of the prophetic movement; Elijah

• Teacher: Martin Pakula