Israelite Creation in Context

Professor

COURSE PREVIEW

The first chapters of Genesis are among the best known in the entire Bible – and the most debated. For many readers, the biblical creation story represents a rift between Scripture and Science; others attempt to interpret Genesis in light of scientific discoveries. But what if there’s more to the creation narrative than the so-called origins debate? In this course, you will look behind the curtain of ancient Israel to see what Genesis 1-3 really meant in its original Hebrew context. So much of our modern understanding is based on our modern knowledge. But what if we look at the verses and lean on the things that ancient Israelites and the neighbors knew and understood? Our understanding of what happened in Eden may take on a different shape. In this course, you will encounter the familiar creation stories from an ancient Israelite perspective and ponder Israel’s priestly polemic against other Near Eastern ideas about life reality.

Student feedback:

“Thank you, Dr. Shaser: I have learned a lot in this course. Your exegetical treatment of the text is outstanding.” – Nehiel Rojas

“This is an excellent course that makes clear and clears up many misconceptions. The beauty of the original intent shines through.” – Thomas Anderson

“What a wonderful course Prof. Schaser! I’m through it for the first time and plan to go through it again. Thank you for the brilliant and valuable interpretations and interpretive tools.” – David Miller

Course Features

Sessions 19
Duration 7 hours
Language English

- Lecture1.1
  Introduction and Genesis Ch. 1
- Lecture1.2
  Divine Function in Genesis
- Lecture1.3
  Creation and Separation
- Lecture1.4
  Material vs. Functional Creation
- Lecture1.5
  Making and Appointing
- Lecture1.6
  Bringing Forth and Evolution
- Lecture1.7
  Creation Polemics
- Lecture1.8
  Knowing God Through His Creation
- Lecture1.9
  Sanctifying Time vs. Space
- Lecture1.10
  The Image and Likeness of God
- Lecture1.11
  Archetypal Account of Genesis Ch. 2
- Lecture1.12
  Mortality, Order, and Chaos
- Lecture1.13
  Eden as a Sacred Space
- Lecture1.14
  The First Woman
- Lecture1.15
  Two Halves and One Flesh
- Lecture1.16
  The Snake in Eden
- Lecture1.17
  The Snake as Satan
- Lecture1.18
  The Snake and Forbidden Fruit
- Lecture1.19
  The Consequences of Disobedience

Dr. Nicholas J. Schaser

Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies

In addition to his work with Israel Bible Center as Professor of Hebrew Bible, Dr. Schaser is an Assistant Professor of Jewish Studies at Macalester College and the Adjunct Instructor of the New Testament at Bethel Seminary (both in St. Paul, Minnesota). Professor Schaser’s research interests include rabbinic literature and the Jewishness of the New Testament, with particular focus on Midrash and the Gospel of Matthew. Teaching widely in both synagogues and churches, Dr. Schaser strives to promote mutual learning and respect between Jews and Christians.

Dr. Schaser enjoys communicating with participants and asks that those with questions or comments please email him at: [email protected]

*Please do not contact Macalester College or Vanderbilt University for correspondence with Dr. Schaser.