DE 5010  The Pentateuch

Lecturer: R. Laird Harris

Course Description 

A study of the contents of the Pentateuch against its archaeological background together with consideration of the particular Pentateuchal problems of evolution and higher criticism. The laws which form the basis of Israel's theocracy will be examined with regard to their content, meaning, and applicability today.

Course Objectives

• To gain a knowledge of the content of the five books of Moses and gain principles for their interpretation.
• To interpret Genesis 1-11 and offer arguments in defense of the biblical teaching vs. evolutionary claims.
• To understand and to sketch out the answers to the higher critical attack upon the unity of the Pentateuch.
• To learn the history given in the Pentateuch against its archaeological background and show its bearing on the interpretation of the text.

Course Materials

All required course materials can be purchased through the TEDS bookstore (800.456.7323 | 847.317.6800).

• Harris, R. Laird. The Pentateuch, Audio Taped Lectures & Study Guide. Grand Rapids, MI: Institute of Theological Studies, a division of Outreach, Inc., 1975.
• The Holy Bible: Each chapter of the Pentateuch (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) should be read at least twice. Each reading should be completed in a different modern translation, preferably New King James Version, New American Standard, New International Version, or the New Revised Standard Version.
• Wolf, Herbert. An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch. Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1991.
• Merrill, Eugene H. Kingdom of Priests: A History of Old Testament Israel. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1997.

Resources