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Maalot Educational Network | Evaluated Learning Experience

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Studies in Megillot (REL356)

Formerly Studies in Megillot II: Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes, Lamentations (REL356) II: Songs, Ecclesiastes, Lamentations (REL356)
Course Category: 
Judaic Studies/Religion - Maalot Educational Network
Length: 

39 hours (13 weeks). 

Location: 
Maalot, Jerusalem, and other authorized locations.
Dates: 

September 2009 - Present.

Instructional delivery format: 
Traditional classroom model
Hybrid course/exam
Learner Outcomes: 

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: identify and articulate the major religious and moral ideas to be found in Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes, and Lamentations and identify the symbolism employed in these books.

Instruction: 

Major topics taught in this course include: the respective religious, moral and philosophical issues in the following three books of the Bible: Song of Songs: the authorship and the stage of life he was at when he wrote it, the allegorical motif, integration of body and soul in rabbinic tradition, the influence of the Song of Songs on medieval rabbinic poetry. Ecclesiastes: authorship, motifs, debate over entering it into the Biblical canon, Divine judgment of wicked and righteous, motifs, what distinguishes man from animal, injustice in society, evils of rivalry, severity of vows, pursuit of wealth, theodicy. Lamentations: authorship, literary style and structure, Jerusalem’s downfall, destruction of the Temple, suffering, exile, sins of the fathers, Rabbi Akiva’s optimism. Selection of Megillot may vary. Methods of instruction include lecture, discussion, and textual preparation.

Credit recommendation: 

In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category OR in the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Hebrew Bible, Judaic Studies, or Religious Studies (10/10) (8/15 revalidation) (3/21 revalidation).

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