Course

Sacred Texts of Eastern Christianity 7,5 hp

This course focuses on how the Sacred Scriptures were transmitted in Eastern Christianity, including the Peshitta in the Syriac communities, the Septuagint in the Greek communities, Ethiopic translations, and the Arabic translations used among others by the Copts. Besides biblical texts, texts by the Apostolic Fathers are read and analyzed. Central questions include the formation of the canon, as well as the use and interpretation of these texts in ancient and modern times. The course also includes studies on reception theory.

At the end of the course, the student is expected to be able to:

  • account for the textual history of the authoritative Bible version in each tradition and to discuss their theological value and relevance
  • analyze and compare understandings and uses of the Scriptures in Patristic and modern times
  • apply critical methods and theories in the study of biblical texts and their reception
  • identify and argue for trends and changes in the transmission, comprehension, and use of the Scriptures in the relevant source material

The course literature may be subject to revision.

  • Holmes , Michael W. , 2007. Apostolic Fathers: Greek Texts and English Translations. 3 edition Grand Rapids Michigan: Baker Academic . (100 p.)

    Note: Later edition can be used.

  • Brock , Sebastian P., 2006. The Bible in the Syriac Tradition.. Piscataway: New Jersey: Gorgias Press. (7-101, 94 p.)

    Note: Later edition can be used.

  • Pentiuc, Eugene J. , 2014. The Old Testament in Eastern Orthodox Tradition.. Oxford & New York,: Oxford University Press. (330 p.)

    Note: Later edition can be used.

  • Stylianopoulos, Theodore G. , 2004. The New Testament: An Orthodox Perspective, Scripture, Tradition, Hermeneutics. i. vol. 1 Brookline Massachusetts: Holy Cross Orthodox Press.. (238 p.)

    Note: Later edition can be used.

  • Young, Frances M, 2002. Biblical Exegesis and the Formation of Christian Culture. UK & New York, NY & Oakleigh, Melbourne: Cambridge University Press.

    Note: Later edition can be used.

Additional articles will be provided by the teacher (ca 100 p).

Literature last revised on February 1, 2022.

The schedule is available at the latest one month before the course starts. We do not recommend that you print the schedule as some changes may happen.

Open the Schedule

Haileyesus Alebachew

Teol.dr., Adjunct

haileyesus.alebachew@sanktignatios.org

Grades

A = Excellent, B = Very good, C = Good, D = Satisfactory, E = Sufficient, Fx = Insufficient, F = Insufficient

Examination Format

  • Papers
  • Seminars
  • Take-home examination
  • Written examination

General requirements for university studies.
30 credits in Theology, including the courses Biblical Studies, 7,5 hp and History of Religions 7,5 hp and Interpretation, Theory and Method with Paper, 7,5 hp, or equivalent.

Established by Subject Representative College at Enskilda Högskolan Stockholm on December 21, 2016.

Last revised on April 22, 2020.