More Bible readings!

Many of these chapters are quite short, so don't be put off by the number of chapters. For next time, in Genesis, read chapters:

4

6-9

11:1-9

12-13

15-19

As you move through the texts, ask yourselves: "What are the cultural values being expressed in these stories?" That is, we're not asking so much what these people believe about God, but what they believe is important in the world? There is no writing assignment due with this.

I'll look over your questions from today's assignment to see what we might add to the discussion next time.

Biblical readings

We aren't entirely finished discussing your summer reading (in fact, we'll refer back to those texts throughout the year), and I hope to continue our discussion of "theme" next time. Nevertheless, the focus of the next class is the first part of the Hebrew Bible. Before you do the reading, write down (this will be typed and handed in, as will the entire assignment): What do you know about the story of Adam and Eve? If this leaves you completely blank, write down what you know about the origins of the universe and the Earth. Then read Genesis chapters 1-3. (I have provided a link to a translation of the Hebrew Bible if you don't have your own text.) After reading those chapters: What surprised you? What puzzled you or raised questions for you?

Hand in on 9/10.