Courses

This course introduces the student to the most important rabbinic writings (e.g., Mishnah, Talmud, and the Midrashim). Sessions consist of readings and introductory lectures concerned with the origin and editing of this literature, its purposes, and the types of scriptural and logical arguments employed. Selected writings are studied in greater depth; depending on the makeup of the class, some passages are read in Hebrew and others in English.

This course is scheduled as the Summer session study tour of Israel (cf. RELS 350). It offers students the opportunity to study important topographical and archaeological sites, including digs in progress, and to view several important finds in the Israel National Museum.

The course offers students an introduction to Syriac. Although the emphasis falls on the Peshitta, students are exposed to other Syriac writings.

This course, which presupposes a minimum of 6 sem. hrs. of Biblical Hebrew, offers students an introduction to Biblical, Qumranic, and Targumic Aramaic.

This course, which presupposes RELS 655, guides students through selected readings in Biblical, Qumranic, and Targumic Aramaic.

This course, which presupposes a minimum of 6 sem. hrs. of Hebrew, offers students an introduction to Mishnaic and Qumranic Hebrew and guides students through selected readings.

This course introduces students to the principles and practice of Biblical interpretation during the Reformation period. Of special interest are the commentaries and scriptural arguments in support of important doctrines.

An exploration of the interactions between Christian thought, practice, and culture. While not exhaustive in nature, the course seeks to familiarize students with major doctrines and thinkers in the history of Christian thought through an engagement with primary and secondary source material.

An examination of the emergence and development of Christian thought from the Apostolic Fathers through to St. Thomas Aquinas. Building on the foundation laid by RELS 661 (History of Christian Doctrine), this course invites students into a deeper understanding of the complexities of early and medieval Christian thought through close readings of primary source material from significant individuals and councils