Introduction to the Psalms
Module Code: 414TIP Credits: 10 Contact Hours: 30 Level: 4 Lecturer:
Syllabus
The Psalm are some of the most remarkable documents of the Hebrew Biblical literary coprus. This modules seeks to introduce the Psalms as literary texts through examination of their construction, their genre, and their application in Hebrew liturgical/theological use. Attention will also be paid to external influences on the nature and composition of Hebrew poetry.
The module will introduce the students to the role and place of the Psalms in the Hebrew faith experience and then move to consider elements of rhythm, parallelism, Psalm designations, titles, and musicality. Psalm numbering, and the ‘five books’ will also be examined. Some attention will be paid to the Yahwistic, Eloistic and Later Yahwistic designations.
The theology of the Psalms will be explored primarily through their literary genres, especially in pioneering work of Herman Gunkel. At least one psalm of Lamentation[penitential]; Todah[ Thanksgiving]; Pilgrim[ Ascent Psalms]; and Hymnic will be analysed so as to elucidate the relationship between text, social and religious environment, and theology.
The module will conclude with an examination of the relevance of the Psalms as poetry, prayer, hymn, for Christian theology/spirituality today.
Aims
- to acquaint the student with the Psalms as literary texts
- to examine and explore the literary genres of the Psalms
- to examine the Psalms in relation to their environment, social and religious
- to acquaint the student with Hebrew poetique
- to examine the theology of the Psalms
- to show their relevance in Christian life today
Assessment
This module will be assessed through a 3,000 word essay
Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of this module the students will demonstrate
- a knowledge of Psalm numbering
- an understanding of the literary construction of Psalms
- a knowledge of the Psalm collections
- a knowledge of Hebrew poetique
- knowledge of the psalm genres such as Thanksgiving, Royal, Pilgrim psalms
- an understanding of the theological content of the psalms
Transferable Skills
By the end of this module students will be able
- to form independent opinions and demonstrate an ability to use evidence appropriately to support conclusions
- to display an ability to distinguish between fact and opinion on the Psalms , and be able to make appropriate choices from primary/secondary sources
- to situate their argument in the light of contemporary scholarship.
- to contribute confidently to group/class discussions.
- to communicate the module content in a balanced manner to others e.g. members of the student’s religious community.
- to select appropriate psalms for liturgical/spiritual with groups
- to recognise the type of psalm used in liturgies, Divine Office
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