The World of the Old Testament: History, Cultures, and Societies

Course Description:
A significant portion of the Old Testament (40-50%) is written in the genre of history, narrating events, referencing geographical locations, and depicting the lives of real people in the Ancient Near East. This course delves into the archaeology, history, and geography of the Old Testament, providing a comprehensive understanding of the historical passages within their broader cultural and historical contexts. Through this exploration, students will deepen their appreciation for the Old Testament and its significance in understanding God’s Word and its relevance today.

Objectives:
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the geography, languages, and cultures of the Ancient Near East (ANE) and their importance to Old Testament history.
• Analyze key archaeological discoveries that illuminate events and contexts described in the Old Testament.
• Comprehend the basic history, culture, and interactions of major people groups mentioned in the Old Testament (e.g., Philistines, Moabites, Hittites).
• Master essential geography, timelines, and historical developments of prominent empires—Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and Persia—in relation to Old Testament events.
• Engage with the historical narratives of the Old Testament to deepen personal joy, faith, and appreciation for God’s Word.

Duration - 9 weeks

Prerequisites:
None

*If the cost of the class presents any difficulty, please feel free to reach out to us at institute@hopeoakville.ca. We would be happy to offer assistance.

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