| Hermeneutics Syllabus | |
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Gil Yoder, Instructor |
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281-489-3108 (home) 281-735-5489 (cell) |
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| Year: Freshman | |
| Semester: First | |
| Hour: 11:00 - 11:50 AM CTZ | |
| Course Description | |
| In this course you will study the science and art of interpretation. Emphasis will be given of course to the interpretation of the Bible, but the methodologies discussed will assist the student in his interpretation of any written or oral work. As it relates to hermeneutics, we will also discuss logic, and we will take time to exercise our hermeneutical skills by discussing various biblical topics. | |
| Text Books | |
| We will use the Bible and Clinton Lockhart's book, Principles of Interpretation. The student is encouraged, but not required to purchase and read D. R. Dungan's book, Hermeneutics as reference may be made to Dungan from time to time. | |
| Hours and Semesters | |
| This course will be for two one-hour credit semesters. Each semester consists of eighteen classes of 50 minutes each. | |
| Reading Assignments | |
| Week 1 -- Introduction to Hermeneutics -- no prior reading required. | |
| Week 2 -- Fundamental Principles -- Read the "Preface," and the first two chapters of Principles of Interpretation. | |
| Week 3 -- Preliminary Rules -- Read chapter three of Principles of Interpretation. | |
| Tests | |
| There will be two major tests per semester at midterms and finals. The student can expect an occasional "pop quiz" over outside reading and class discussion. | |
| Attendance | |
| Attendance will be taken at each at each session, and will count as a part of your grade. Excused absences can be mitigated by viewing the class on demand. Unexcused absences will result in a one grade letter demerit, and three unexcused absences will result in removal from the class. Contact the director, Tom Bright, to have an absence excused, if possible, before the absence. | |
| Writing Assignment | |
| Each student will be expected to write an essay from 1,000 to 1,500 words in which he or she will provide a reasonable interpretation of a difficult passage of scripture. Passage assignments will be made after eight weeks, and the assignment will be due two weeks before the end of the semester. | |