Reading the Historical Books: A Student's Guide to Engaging the Biblical Text

by Patricia Dutcher-Walls

Overview

Biblical history can be some of the most difficult material for beginning students to grasp. The conventions of contemporary history writing are quite different from those of ancient Israelite writers. Here a master teacher offers basic orientation to the genre and conventions of the Old Testament historical books, helping students become careful and attentive readers.

Written in an accessible style with many ancient and contemporary examples, this book introduces students to some of the phenomena they will encounter in the historical books and provides strategies for understanding their significance. The goal is to make further reading and study of Scripture more informed and sensitive. Sidebars, discussion questions, and further reading suggestions are included.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781441244789
Publisher:	Baker Publishing Group
Publication date:	03/18/2014
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	208
File size:	4 MB

About the Author

Patricia Dutcher-Walls (ThD, Graduate Theological Union) is professor of Hebrew scripture at Vancouver School of Theology, where she also gives administrative oversight to the school's doctoral programs and serves as dean of studies and director of the library. She is the author of several books and a web-based Bible study curriculum. Ordained by the United Presbyterian Church (USA), she now serves as a minister in the Presbyterian Church in Canada.

Table of Contents

Contents
Introduction
1. Discovering the Context of the Text
2. Listening to the Story in the Text
3. Discerning the Interests of the Text
4. Examining History in the Text
5. Examining the Shape of History in the Text
Conclusion: Toward a Definition of Biblical Historiography
Indexes