HB 3134

This course provides an introduction to a body of literature that is of great interest in the interpretation of the New Testament: the texts of early rabbinic Judaism (1st-6th centuries CE). The course will center around a series of comparative readings between passages of the New Testament, and selections from rabbinic literature (both halakhic texts and haggadic texts). Students will become familiar with the exegetical techniques of ancient Judaism and their influence upon Christian exegesis, while also probing the extent to which early rabbinic texts can help to illuminate aspects of the New Testament.