Through this lesson the student will learn the basic methods and models - the tools - used in biblical interpretation. The student will use these methods and models in subsequent lessons.

Bellis, Helpmates, Harlots, and Heroes, pp. 3-29
Coogan, Oxford History of the Biblical World, pp. 3-24

Lecture: Interpreting the Bible

Handout: Source Criticism, Composition of the Pentateuch

After reading through the lecture and especially the handout on Source Criticism, identify the J and P elements in Genesis 7:1-16 (Word document or PDF document) and try to divide the text into its two - J and P - sources

Genesis 7:1-16 is composed from both the J and the P source. Each source has a distinctive vocabulary and style in this text. Doublets also indicate the presence of multiple sources.

First, identify any doublets. Second, try to sort through the differences in vocabulary and style, and associate the verses with one or the other of the doublets.

You may download a MS-Word document or a PDF document of the text by clicking on the "Genesis 7:1-16" link above. Use a highlighter to distinguish one source from the other.

What is the role of the historical-critical method in interpreting the Bible? What do we gain from it? What are its weaknesses?

What is the role of models in biblical interpretation? Why are models necessary for interpretation? What are the strengths and weaknesses of models?

What characterizes feminist interpretations? How is the feminist approach subversive? Is this a legitimate enterprise?

How is biblical interpretation a skill that can be learned?

John Barton. Reading the Old Testament: Method in Biblical Study. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1984.

Steven L. McKenzie and Stephen R. Haynes (eds). To Each Its Own Meaning: An Introduction to Biblical Criticisms and Their Application. Louisville: Westminster / John Knox Press, 1993.

Athalya Brenner and Carole Fontaine (eds). A Feminist Companion to Reading the Bible: Approaches, Methods and Strategies. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1997.