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Alphacrucis College

Details for Psalms and Song of Songs

The Psalms are infused with the diverse richness of the human experience. No matter what you are feeling, whether joy or thankfulness, grief or despair, you can always find a psalm that resonates with these emotions. This is why the Psalter continues to remain a favourite book for many of us. Together in this unit, we will explore the wonder and technique of Hebrew poetry, plus the many expressions of prayer and worship within ancient Israel. We will be challenged to utilise these psalms in our own life to bring expression to all our experiences, whether the heights of praise or cries of doubt. But wait, there’s more! In this unit, we will also explore the sexually infused lyrical poetry of the Song of Songs. So all in all, settle back as we explore the poetry of the Psalms and Song of Songs.

Quick Info

  • Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
  • Course code: BIB311
  • Credit points: 10

Prerequisites

The following courses are prerequisites:

The unit Psalms and Song of Songs is part of the subject area Biblical Studies and is offered as a part of the following Awards: Bachelor of Applied Theology (Korean) (Alphacrucis College (NSW Dept. of Education)), Bachelor of Contemporary Ministry (Alphacrucis College (NSW Dept. of Education)).

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This course unit is a detailed examination of the specific texts of Psalms and Song of Songs, and relates this to the challenges of the universal human condition

Subject Content

  1. Features of Hebrew poetry
  2. Themes of Psalms and Song of Songs
  3. Theories of origin and Ancient Near Eastern context of Psalms
  4. Hermeneutical principles applicable to Psalms and Song of Songs
  5. Contemporary approaches to Song of Songs
  6. Using Psalms and Laments in the practice of pastoral care.
  7. Exegesis of selected passages

This course may be offered in the following formats

Lectures, tutorials, small group work, student presentation, dramatic reading, web-based interaction

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis College.

Assessment Methods

Major Essay (50%, 2500 words); Exegetical Essay (25%, 1250 words); Exam (25%)

Prescribed Text

Longman, T, III. How to Read the Psalms. USA: IVP, 1988.

Representative References