RELG 003. The Bible

The Bible has exerted more cultural influence on the West than any other single document; whether we know it or not, it impacts our lives. This class critically examines the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament)-from its Ancient Near Eastern context to its continued use today. We explore a variety of scholarly approaches to the Bible- historical, literary, postmodern-as we read the Bible both with the tools of source-criticism and as cultural critics. Particular focus will be placed on constructions of God, gender, nature, and the “other” in biblical writings as well as the themes of collective identity, violence, and power.
Humanities.
1 credit.
Eligible for GSST
Catalog chapter: Religion
Department website: http://www.swarthmore.edu/religion

Access the class schedule to search for sections.