MT525/625: Non-Western Approaches to Biblical Interpretation (4 units)

Jehu J. Hanciles, Associate Professor of Mission History and Globalization

Winter 2008 Pasadena

DESCRIPTION:

This course introduces the student to basic hermeneutic principles and the multiple approaches to interpreting Scripture evident in different cultural/world settings. The aim is, among other things, to examine the dynamic of translation and interpretation whereby the “Word becomes flesh” in different “neighborhoods” and explore Scripture’s inexhaustible potential to respond to the peculiar needs, questions and spiritual quest of the world’s peoples. Effort will also be made to evaluate different hermeneutic models—primarily those reflective of non-dominant voices—from the point of view that no single approach to the Bible can do justice to its complex narrative and inexhaustible insights. Liberationist, Pluralist, and Primalist perspectives are among those that will receive attention.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Students should expect to 1) gain a working knowledge of hermeneutic task; 2) acquire familiarity with the interpretative tools and perspectives crucial for effective intercultural ministry (including an ability to engage various interpretative voices); 3) develop some understanding of how to cultivate and apply culturally appropriate hermeneutic models within the context of ministry.

COURSE FORMAT:

Class meets one day a week for a period of three hours. At least forty-five minutes of each session will be devoted to class discussion of recommended readings, hermeneutic exercises and/or student presentations.

REQUIRED READING: If you have previously read any of the required texts, please select an alternative text from the recommended reading list or a book approved by the instructor.

1. De La Torre, Minguel A., Reading the Bible from the Margins. Orbis Books, 2002.
2. Dietrich, W. & Luz, U. (eds.), The Bible in a World Context. Eerdmans, 2002.
3. Jenkins, Philip, The New Faces of Christianity: Believing the Bible in the Global South. Oxford, 2006.
4. Küster, Volker, The Many Faces of Jesus Christ: Intercultural Christology. Orbis Books, 2001
5. Tate, W Randolph, Biblical Interpretation: An Integrated Approach. Hendrickson Publishers, 2000.

RECOMMENDED READING:

1. Kaiser, W. C. & Silva, M., An Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics. Zondervan, 1994
2. King, Ursula (ed.), Feminist Theology from the Third World: A Reader. Orbis Books, 1994.
3. Phan, Peter C., Christianity with an Asian Face. Orbis Books, 2003.
4. Schreiter, Robert J., The New Catholicity: Theology Between the Global and the Local. Orbis Books, 1998.
5. Sugirtharajah, R S, (ed), Vernacular Hermeneutics. Sheffield Academic Press, 1999.
6. West, Gerald O. & Dube, Musa W. (eds.), The Bible in Africa. Brill Academic Publishers, 2000.

ASSIGNMENTS:

Assignments**:

1. Read at least 1200 pages from required and recommended books.
2. Write and submit six (1-page) reflection papers based on stipulated readings as required.
3. Write and submit two (3-4 pages) research papers by stipulated deadlines.
4. Submit one (2-3 pages) final paper proposal with a focus on pertinent themes, issues, phenomena, etc.
5. Write a 15-20 page final paper (excluding bibliography) based on research proposal.
(Th.M. students will write a review of a book related to the course and submit a 20-25 page final paper).

** Students are advised that the details of these assignments are subject to last minute change.

PREREQUISITES: None

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.

FINAL EXAM: None.

Note: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design, but is subject to modification. Last Date Edited: 3 January 2008