BIB 310 Advanced Topics in Bereishis
- Description
- Curriculum
BIB 310 is a self-study course whose grade is based solely on the final examination. The course of study that is necessary to be prepared for the final examination consists of lessons based on the readings noted in this syllabus. Students should read the entire text of all the reading assignments. There are no formal assignments, but students are encouraged to take the practice quizzes associated with the readings to ensure that they have gleaned the appropriate knowledge to fulfill the course objectives and are well prepared for the final exam.
Bible 310 is designed to assess the student’s knowledge of the book of Genesis. Students must have a broad knowledge of medieval and modern commentaries on the Bible including the Midrash, the Talmud, the Sforno, Rashi, Ramban, Maimonides, R’ Samson Hirsch, and others. Students will also have an in-depth knowledge of how the Bible is analyzed and understood by the commentaries, focusing on philosophical and ethical principles derived from the verses. Topics include the purpose of Creation, the exile from Eden, the generation until the recognition of Abraham, the ten trials, binding of Isaac, sibling rivalry, the beginning of exile, and more.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a broad and in-depth knowledge of the concepts and themes found in the book of Genesis and its classic medieval and modern commentaries.
- Expand on Talmudic and Midrashic exegesis of the text of the Bible.
- Solve apparent contradictions in and between verses.
- Explain the hermeneutic principles which are applied to verses to gain new insights.
- Interpret the ethical issues being discussed
- Explain lawful rulings derived from the verses as determined in the major law books.
- Demonstrate knowledge of commentaries from the last generation of Torah Scholars.
