Course Description: BIB121 Introduction to Hermeneutics: How to Interpret the Bible, Second Edition (5 CEUs)
This is an introductory course on the principles for interpreting Scripture. It summarizes the need for hermeneutical principles, and explores the qualifications, tools, and goals of a biblical interpreter. This is followed by a historical survey of hermeneutics from early Jewish interpreters to the present. The course includes a unit on the general and specific principles for interpreting the Bible, a unit on genres, and a unit on applying the principles. Students develop their skills by practicing the principles in exercises that are provided.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:
Explain the need for hermeneutical principles to guide interpretation.
Summarize the qualifications, tools, and goals of a biblical interpreter.
Identify key issues in the history of hermeneutics.
Analyze the historical and literary contexts of a given passage of Scripture.
Analyze word meanings and relationships in a given biblical passage.
Contrast figurative and literal language, and the keys for interpreting each.
Distinguish between biblical genres, and the principles for interpreting them.
Summarize the relationship between the Old and New Covenants and God’s kingdom.
Value and identify timeless, cross-cultural principles based on a passage of Scripture.
Discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in interpreting, using, and applying Scripture.
