Torah Accreditation Liaison (TAL) | Evaluated Learning Experience
Textual Analysis of Deuteronomy (Bible 115)
Varies; offered as a proficiency examination or self-study format.
Version 1: August 2005 - February 2012. Version 2: March 2012 - Present.
Version 1 and 2: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: display knowledge of the entire text of The Book of Deuteronomy with a range of midrashic, medieval and modern commentaries. Based on these commentaries, students should be able to articulate underlying meanings found in the text, expound on vague or obscure passages, solve apparent moral inconsistencies, elaborate on motivations in the various episodes throughout the text, and analyze various ethical, symbolic and spiritual issues based on the classical commentaries, explain various metaphysical allusions. The Advanced Bible exams focus on conceptual, philosophical and ethical issues and their textual cues and the ability to express concepts and critical thinking in a clear, organized manner based on a range of classical commentaries.
Version 1 and 2: Proficiency exam: The examination is intended to measure a body of knowledge that candidates have acquired through prior learning experiences. Self-Study Format: Students are expeted to master recommended readings or study guide materials. Students are expected to describe and identify key issues from the Book of Deuteronomy (rebukes of Moses; Moses' plea; loyalty to God; cities of refuge; the 10 Commandments; reward for obedience; non-sacrificial meat; idolatrous prophet and city; kosher and non-kosher animals; tithes; sabbatical year; establishing judges and police; kings; laws of witnesses; laws of inheritance; ben sorer umoreh; rape; divorce; laws of employees; first fruits; covenant; Song of Moses; Blessings of Moses) with the commentary of Rashi.
Version 1: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Judaic Studies, Near Eastern Studies, or Religion (12/05). Version 2: In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 5 semester hours in Judaic Studies, Near Eastern Studies, or Religion (3/12) (3/17 revalidation) (3/22 revalidation).
