Program Overview

Introduction to THL303 Judaism And Early Christianity

This subject explores the rise of Judaism following the Babylonian exile (mid-sixth century BCE) to the second century CE. It examines the influence of Hellenism, the Maccabean revolt, Judea under Herod and Rome, the two Jewish Wars, sectarian Judaism, and Jewish beliefs and institutions in the first century CE. The rise of early Christianity within the context of formative Judaism and the competing responses of these two movements to the destruction of the temple in 70 CE are examined.

Subject Outlines

The subject outlines provide an overview of the course structure and content. Current students can view subject outlines for recent sessions, noting that subject outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

The subject is available in:

• Session 1 (30)
• On Campus: United Theological College
• Online: Canberra Campus

Continuing students should consult the relevant resources for current offering details, where differences exist between the Handbook and the resources, the resources should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

The grading system used is HD/FL.

Duration

The subject duration is one session.

School

The subject is part of the School of Theology.

Assumed Knowledge

Assumed knowledge includes THL105, THL106, and THL208.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

• Be able to discuss the rise of Judaism from the mid-sixth century BCE to the second century CE
• Be able to identify major Jewish groups prior to the Jewish war of 66-70 CE and their distinguishing features
• Be able to demonstrate a knowledge of Jewish institutions in the first centuries BCE and CE
• Be able to demonstrate a knowledge of Rabbinic traditions and their principal literary expressions
• Be able to discuss Jesus within the context of formative Judaism
• Be able to discuss the rise of early Christianity within the context of formative Judaism
• Be able to demonstrate critical engagement with both primary biblical materials and secondary literature
• Demonstrate self-guided learning, including research, writing, and communication skills

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• The development of Judaism from the sixth century BCE to the second century CE
• An examination of evidence relating to sectarian Judaism
• Josephus, Philo, and the Dead Sea Scrolls as sources for understanding formative Judaism and early Christianity
• Torah and messiah in sectarian Judaism (including early Christianity)
• The impact upon Judaism of Hellenism, Roman occupation, and Herodian rule
• Jewish sages and the development of rabbinic Judaism
• Jesus in the context of Judaism
• Diverse expressions of early Christianity in relation to Judaism