Religious Studies

An examination of some phase of religious studies not covered in other courses. May be repeated for credit.

A study of the history, culture, art and religion of the ancient Near East. Attention will focus on the major civilizations of the period 7000-300 BC. Israel's interrelations with these civilizations will be touched on briefly. Major archaeological contributions will be discussed.

A reading seminar utilizing primary, noncanonical, religious, theological and historical writings of the Hellenistic age. Representative Jewish, Christian and pagan cognate literature relevant for the interpretation of the New Testament will be surveyed.