THEO-511 (4) The Language of the Hebrew Bible

Teaches the basic skills of grammatical analysis used in exegetical studies of the Hebrew Bible. Students may apply for assessment on a credit/fail basis. Equals the first half of HEBR 191 offered by the program of Hebrew in the Faculty of Arts and Science calendar.

THEO-512 (4) Readings in Hebrew

For acquiring a reading knowledge of the prose of the Hebrew Scriptures with the aid of a dictionary. This course continues THEO-591* and students may apply for assessment on a credit/fail basis. Equals the second half of HEBR 191 offered by the program of Hebrew in the Faculty of Arts and Science calendar. Prerequisite/Co-requisite(s): THEO-591*

THEO-513 (4) Jesus: The Continuing Historical Quest

An introduction to the methods and conclusions used in the modern quest to understand the historical facts of Jesus' life.  We will look closely at selected ancient primary texts and modern secondary sources and evaluate their utility in constructing an understanding of the historical Jesus.  Particular attention will be given to understanding the historical Jesus in his first-century socio-cultural context.

THEO-514 (4) The Interpretation of Apocalyptic Literature

An exploration of the apocalyptic literary genre in formative Judaism and early Christianity.  The primary focus will be the theological perspectives and social functions of apocalyptic in Jewish and Christian traditions, with a particular attention to the Book of Revelation.  A survey of the appropriation of apocalyptic themes throughout history in artistic forms such as art, fiction, and film, with particular attention to our own time and cultures will be undertaken.   Special attention will be given to the interpretive methods used to interpret apocalyptic writings.

THEO-515 (4) The Hebrew Scriptures

Attention paid to acquiring knowledge of central ideas expressed by the writings of the Hebrew Scriptures and to developing basic exegetical skills.

THEO-516 (4) The New Testament and Christian Origins

An overview of the content and background of the twenty-seven documents that comprise the New Testament.  These texts are used to explore the historical development of various facets of the early Jesus movement as it is expressed in the literature of the various faith communities.

THEO-710 (4) Interpretation of the Prophets

For exploring prophetic writings and their place in the faith of the Hebrew Scriptures.  Selected passages will be studied.  Acquisition of a thorough knowledge of exegetical method is emphasized.

THEO-711 (4) Interpretation of Torah

For appreciation of the spirituality of the first five books of the Bible and its contemporary relevance.  Selected passages will be studied.  Acquisition of a method for appropriating the messages of the Torah in a modern context is emphasized.

THEO-712 (4) Interpretation of Wisdom

The biblical word for "wisdom" also means "skills", including life-skills.  This course explores the important implications that the connection between wisdom and life-skills has for the modern reader of the Bible.

THEO-713 (4) Luke's Gospel and Acts

Major literary, theological, and socio-cultural themes in Luke's two-volume work will be explored, including such topics as the sharing of possessions, the roles of women in Jesus' ministry and the early church, characterization and plot development, Luke's view of salvation history, and attitudes towards marginalized groups.

THEO-714 (4) The Epistles of Paul

An introducation to the social context of the canonical letters attributed to Paul.  Emphasis will be placed on reading the letters against the background of Roman imperialism and the variety of cult practices in various urban locales, including synagogue meetings, mystery religions, and voluntary associations.  We will examine how the urban contexts of Paul's Jesus-groups affected his strategies in addressing the social and theological issues that arose among members.

THEO-715 (4) The Language of the New Testament

An introduction to the original language of the New Testament, offering a basic understanding of how the language works and useful linguistic and exegetical tools for studying New Testament texts.  It can be assessed on a credit/fail basis.

THEO-716 (4) Reading the Greek New Testament

A continuation of THEO-715* which completes the elements of Greek grammar and begins the reading of New Testament texts.  Emphasis will be placed on understanding how the grammar works and how this knowledge can be applied in exegeting New Testament texts.  It can be assessed on a credit/fail basis.  Prerequisite: THEO-715*

THEO-717 (4) Topics in Biblical Studies I

For addressing special topics in Biblical theology.  Usually a theme relevant to both the interpretation of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament is discussed.  Course content determined in instructor.

THEO-718 (4) Topics in Biblical Studies II

For addressing special topics in Biblical theology.  Usually a theme relevant to both the interpretation of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament is discussed.  Course content determined in instructor.

THEO-719 (4) Lament: The Rhetoric of Innocence

The purpose of this course is to develop an appreciation of the biblical tradition of lament and its possibilities for contemporary pastoral care.

THEO-720 (4) Matthew

An in-depth view of selected passages in the Gospel of Matthew.