Course overview
In this course, students will examine the First and Second Testaments as enduring sacred texts, while analysing contemporary Scriptural interpretation and the Catholic educational implications of the Scripture studied. Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of key literary genres, themes and structures of the First and Second Testaments. The Pentateuch's central place in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures is explored (especially the Books of Genesis and Exodus), including the contrast between literalist and contextualist approaches to Scriptural interpretation and the role of the Historical-metaphorical approach. This is linked with understanding the various worldviews which shape Scriptural interpretation. The study of the Second Testament includes a survey of First-Century CE Judaism and the Jewish context of Jesus, prior to exploration of the historical development of the Gospels. The close links between the First Testament and the Gospels are examined, especially through the study of Matthew's Gospel. The course also explores the relevance of these early Christian texts and communities for contemporary Catholic school settings and Religious Education programs.
Course learning outcomes
- Recognise and contrast the various genres of Biblical literature
- Analyse the historical development, literary forms and methods of interpretation of the Biblical texts
- Explore the development of the major theological themes of the Pentateuch, especially as expressed in the Books of Genesis and Exodus.
- Evaluate the importance of the Jewish context of the life of Jesus and of the early Christian communities to the formation of the Second Testament.
- Explain the process through which the four Gospels came to be written
- Examine the distinctive theology of the Gospel of Matthew and apply the `Three worlds of the text' approach to Gospel interpretation.
- Apply contemporary Biblical scholarship in personal and educational settings, especially the 'Three worlds of the text' approach to Scripture interpretation.
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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.