This course on Old Testament backgrounds offers a comprehensive examination of the historical, cultural, social, and political contexts in which the texts of the Old Testament were composed. Through a combination of textual analysis, archaeological evidence, and historical research, students will gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Near Eastern world and its influence on the development of Old Testament literature. Topics covered will include:
- The ancient Near Eastern Civilizations
- Archaeology, the Bible, and Epigraphy
- Israel before Settling in the Land
- Israel in the Land of Canaan
- The Kingdoms of Israel and Judah
- Currid, John D. Ancient Egypt and the Old Testament. Baker Academic 1997
- Foster, Benjamin R. and Karen Polinger Foster. Civilizations of Ancient Iraq. Princeton University Press 2011
- Matthews, Victor H. and Don C. Benjamin. Social World of Ancient Israel, 1250-587 BCE. Baker Academic 2005
Prerequisites:
- BI-5003 Introduction to the Old Testament
3 credit course