THEO9033 Biblical Hermeneutics: Making Sense of the Bible GE

This topic evaluates the variety of methodologies of biblical interpretation and hermeneutical perspectives, by which contemporary meaning is made from ancient scripture. Current approaches to scripture will be evaluated critically, and the students will explore their own hermeneutic strategies.

This topic aims to:

• Investigate the history of biblical interpretation and some of the philosophical underpinnings of that history, including hermeneutical theory
• Examine the shifts in methodologies and perspectives that have taken place since the mid 20th Century
• Investigate theoretical approaches to scripture and the methods used in these approaches
• Evaluate the use of the scriptures in the life of the church: in liturgy, spirituality, systematic and pastoral theology
• Articulate the challenges that face the church today in its use of the Bible, including the application of hermeneutical theory to the practice of biblical interpretation, for a range of audiences

1. Theorise about the development of historical approaches to biblical interpretation
2. Analyse and compare different hermeneutical strategies in relation to their historical contexts
3. Critically analyse the shifts in methodologies and perspectives that have taken place since the mid 20th Century
4. Demonstrate mastery in the application of hermeneutical theory to the interpretation of the biblical text as it is used in the life of the church in the contexts of liturgy, spirituality, systematic and pastoral theology and mission
5. Apply knowledge regarding historical and contemporary approaches to biblical interpretation to their own approach to hermeneutical discourse