BI 903: Advanced Hermeneutics and Exegesis

• 4.00 Credit Hours

This course is an advanced study of the principles and methods of biblical interpretation. Students will explore the history of interpretation, the nature of language, the role of context, and the various interpretive approaches that have been used throughout church history. Specific attention is given to biblical hermeneutics focusing on the literal/grammatical/historical method of interpretation. This course will consider comparative and historical methods for biblical interpretation and delineate theological implications for faith and practice. The outcome is that students will learn to analyze and evaluate different interpretive methods, and to develop their own interpretive skills. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:1. Define hermeneutics and explain its importance for biblical interpretation. 2. Identify and explain the different types of interpretive methods. 3. Analyze and evaluate different interpretive methods. 4. Develop their own interpretive skills. 5. Apply their interpretive skills to the interpretation of biblical texts.