Jewish Origins and the Hebrew Bible: Texts and Contexts

(2.5-3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Taught at a host instititution. LY1101 at TCD; The variety of terms used to designate the ‘Hebrew Bible' (e.g. Old Testament, Hebrew Scriptures, Tanak) indicate the richness of traditions related to these writings, the various ways that they are viewed, and also their life within different communities at different times. This module will orient students to the development of a variety of documents that are, or were, included in the scriptural traditions of various Jewish and Christian communities in antiquity. Questions related to forms before development of canons of scripture will be one main concern. When texts and their contents are a focal point students will be familiarised with many of the methods used for interpreting these writings. Focus on context will involve setting writings within their historical periods, political and social contexts, and provide information about material culture and archaeology relevant to a historical and literary approach to the subject.