SEM 801: Doctoral Seminar in Biblical Studies

Title: SEM 801: Doctoral Seminar in Biblical Studies

Subtitle: Advanced Topics and Research in Biblical Scholarship

Course Name & Level: Doctoral Seminar in Biblical Studies, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Biblical Studies, Doctoral Seminar, Advanced Research

1. Introduction:

This seminar provides an in-depth exploration of advanced topics in biblical studies. Students will engage in rigorous research and scholarly discussions on various aspects of biblical scholarship.

2. Course Description:

An advanced seminar focusing on current research and debates in biblical studies. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, research skills, and scholarly writing.

3. Course Purpose:

To foster advanced research skills and scholarly dialogue in the field of biblical studies.

4. Course Objectives:

To engage students in critical analysis of contemporary issues in biblical studies and to enhance their research and writing skills.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Biblical Hermeneutics: The study of the principles and methods of interpreting the Bible.
• Exegesis: Critical explanation or interpretation of biblical texts.
• Theological Debates: Scholarly discussions on various theological issues and interpretations.
• Historical-Critical Method: An approach to biblical studies that seeks to understand the historical context and development of biblical texts.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Integrating methods and insights from various academic disciplines into biblical studies.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Advanced Biblical Studies: Overview of the seminar and its objectives.
• Contemporary Issues in Biblical Hermeneutics: Examination of current debates and methodologies in biblical interpretation.
• Advanced Exegesis of Biblical Texts: In-depth analysis of selected biblical passages using various exegetical methods.
• Theological Debates in Biblical Studies: Exploration of key theological issues and their implications for biblical scholarship.
• Historical Context of Biblical Texts: Study of the historical background and development of biblical literature.
• Interdisciplinary Approaches to Biblical Studies: Integration of insights from archaeology, sociology, anthropology, and other disciplines.
• Current Trends in Biblical Scholarship: Review of recent publications and research trends in the field.
• Research Methodologies in Biblical Studies: Examination of advanced research methods and their application to biblical studies.
• Critical Reviews of Scholarly Articles: Analysis and critique of recent scholarly articles in biblical studies.
• Developing a Research Proposal: Techniques for formulating and presenting a research proposal.
• Scholarly Writing and Presentation: Skills for writing and presenting research findings in academic settings.
• Case Studies in Biblical Scholarship: Analysis of significant research projects and their contributions to the field.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and methodologies.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
• Research Proposal: Development of a research proposal on a chosen topic in biblical studies.
• Literature Review: Comprehensive review of existing literature related to the research topic.
• Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on an advanced topic in biblical studies.
• Midterm Exam: An exam covering the first half of the seminar material.
• Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire seminar.
• Participation: Active participation in seminar discussions and group activities.
• Presentation: A presentation on a significant aspect of biblical scholarship.

8. Research References:

• The Art of Biblical Narrative by Robert Alter. eBook format. MLA Citation: Alter, Robert. The Art of Biblical Narrative. Basic Books, 2011.
• Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics by Walter C. Kaiser Jr. and Moisés Silva. eBook format. MLA Citation: Kaiser, Walter C. Jr., and Moisés Silva. Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics. Zondervan, 2007.
• The Historical Jesus: A Comprehensive Guide by Gerd Theissen and Annette Merz. eBook format. MLA Citation: Theissen, Gerd, and Annette Merz. The Historical Jesus: A Comprehensive Guide. Fortress Press, 1998.
• Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner’s Handbook by John H. Hayes and Carl R. Holladay. eBook format. MLA Citation: Hayes, John H., and Carl R. Holladay. Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner’s Handbook. Westminster John Knox Press, 2007.
• The Cambridge Companion to Biblical Interpretation edited by John Barton. eBook format. MLA Citation: Barton, John, editor. The Cambridge Companion to Biblical Interpretation. Cambridge University Press, 1998.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students engage deeply with advanced topics in biblical studies, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.