Ancient Jewish Literature

A “Texts in Translation” Course.

Join Rob in this intensive look at how key biblical terms became symbols of sectarian disputation and division in the Second Temple era and beyond. The text of the Tanakh was a springboard for all manner of Jewish speculation, midrashic expansion, and imaginative explanation about a number of hot topics. One’s conviction about the significance of a particular symbol is often an index of the group affiliation they want for themselves, the “in group” from which they seek acceptance. People who share specialized stories and vocabulary tend to stick together. A good grasp of this phenomenon heightens appreciation, not only for the biblical canon itself but for the vital importance of cultivating a thought-life properly grounded in and constrained by inspired Scripture. When we’re centered on the Bible, a spiritually healthy delight in God’s Word replaces any thrill of sensational myths and legends.

Included in our readings and discussions will be extra-biblical stories about Abraham, angels, the Torah, Jerusalem, and the Messiah.

The class will consist of selected readings (in English translation), video lessons, live Q&A sessions, and short writing assignments.