Introduction to Biblical Studies: History, Literature, and Context

Reading ancient texts deeply requires more than just scanning the words; it demands an understanding of the historical worlds in which they were written. This text-based course guides you through the historical, cultural, and literary landscapes of biblical literature. You will transition from simply reading the texts to analyzing them with academic clarity. By exploring the origins, development, and contexts of these writings, you will gain a well-rounded foundation in biblical literacy. What you'll learn: Understand the historical and geographical settings of the Ancient Near East and the Greco-Roman world; Analyze the diverse literary genres found within biblical texts, including narrative, poetry, and letters; Explore the history of biblical translations and how modern translation methodologies impact meaning; Apply basic historical-critical methods to contextualize key passages; Examine the formation of the biblical canon and the preservation of ancient manuscripts. The course begins with essential terminology and historical frameworks before moving into a systematic, text-by-text exploration of major literary sections. This course is designed for absolute beginners, history enthusiasts, and literary students with no prior academic or linguistic background required. Begin your reading journey into biblical history and literature today.