This course, taught by Terry Ann Smith at New Brunswick Theological Seminary, will offer a brief but comprehensive overview of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament by examining the text’s historical, literary and theological origins in the life of ancient Israel. The Old Testament/Hebrew Bible is formative for Christianity (and Judaism) and used as a guide by many people of faith to understand their relationship with God and with humanity. This relationship brings with it concerns for justice (social, economic, and environmental). Therefore, as clergy, educators, counselors, and faith community leaders, it is vital to have a grasp of its content, its varied interpretations, and the many ways the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament can be integrated into individual ministries. While we will be discussing the Old Testament as a theological witness to the faith of the people “Israel” in its Ancient Near Eastern setting, relevant social, cultural and ideological issues that gave rise to the book’s production will be placed in conversation with today’s concerns for contemporary application.

Seminary: New Brunswick Theological Seminary
Keywords: ecology, creation care, environmental justice, racial justice, gender, natural sciences