Introduction to the Old Testament

This course introduces the students to Church teaching regarding Scripture in general and Biblical inspiration. It guides the students through the world of the Hebrew Bible or the Old Testament which reflects the socio-political and religious history and ideals of ancient Israel. The following topics are treated: 1) the Bible and the Literature of the Ancient Near East; 2) the formation of the canon of the OT; 3) the books of the Torah; 4) the books of the Prophets; 5) the books of the Writings; 6) the overall message of the Old Testament and its relationship to the New. The course offers pedagogical tools in interpreting the Old Testament and in explaining and proclaiming the Sacred Scriptures to students and parishioners and to whomever the participants minister.Testament and in explaining and proclaiming the Sacred Scriptures to students and parishioners and to whomever the participants minister.