Hebrew Scriptures 1

The Hebrew Scriptures are at the root of three major world religions—Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Hebrew Scriptures are a collection of fascinating and sometimes confusing stories, poetry, wisdom sayings and inspired visions. While some stories in Hebrew Scriptures are little known outside scholarly circles, others have become commonplace in conversation, for example “David and Goliath.” Students will explore the history and development of Hebrew Scriptures as well as the Metaphysical interpretation and thereby acquiring a solid foundation for continuing study and exploration. This course is part 1 of a journey into the Hebrew Scriptures commencing with Genesis and the first books of the Torah with Bible 2 continuing the journey to the conclusion of the Hebrew writings.

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• Identify parts and origins of the Hebrew Scriptures
• Identify the writers and the times of the writings
• Compare time periods and explain their significance
• Explain how the Hebrew Scriptures can present the story of the evolution of the consciousness of humankind
• Interpret stories, characters and places metaphysically
• Relate the interpretations to life today
• Interpret the stories maieutically for deeper meaning

Required Text/Readings

• Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Taking the Bible Seriously But not Literally, Marcus J. Borg, San Francisco: Harper Collins, 2001.
• Bible NRSV –a Study Bible is highly recommended. Preferred study Bible: The New Interpreter’s Study Bible – NRSV version with Apocrypha;
• Also acceptable: The New Oxford Annotated Bible with Apocrypha: NRSV or The Harper Collins Study Bible including Apocryphal Deutercanonical Books

Recommended Text

• Metaphysical Bible Dictionary, R.C. Douglass, Unity Books (on-line version at Truth Unity.net)
• The Revealing Word, Unity Books (on-line version at Truth Unity.net)