As attention for the contribution of so-called “intuitive” or “ordinary” Bible readers in Biblical interpretation increases, the need for attentive approaches of understanding the many voices involved in reading the Bible increases too. Researching the Bible by listening to and comprehending its usage extends beyond and challenges traditional forms of Biblical exegesis and hermeneutical framework common to Biblical scholarship.
The classes of the course will address questions such as: How to research the function of the Bible in activities organized by different church traditions? How do people make sense of the Bible? How does the Bible assist them in making sense of their lives? In addressing these questions, the course considers diverse communities, including both traditional churches and groups outside them. Particular attention is given to communities with marginalized identities, such as queer, migrant, or poor. The course challenges participants to reflect on whether and how contextual factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic status require different research methods when examining the role of the Bible within different communities. Additionally, students are asked to reflect on their own positionality and its relationship to researching the Bible in diverse communities of interpretation.
Aim of the course
After the completion of this summer course, the participants should gain knowledge of orientation on how to research Bible usage in particular communities as well as tools and methods for conducting such research. Particularly, training in contextual biblical interpretation and interdisciplinary approach to research the Bible’s role in particular communities will also be obtained. Furthermore, this course offers opportunities to broaden hermeneutical horizons, deepen theological thinking, critically examine methodological and disciplinary presumptions and boundaries, and reflect upon the researcher's positionality in interactions with participants from all around the world.
Target audience, ECTS and study load
This course is for MA/PhD students, advanced BA students in theology, religious studies, or related disciplines; professionals (pastors, teachers, Bible translators, etc.), and researchers.
You can earn 2 ECTS, or 3 ECTS with the possibility to gain up extra 3 ECTS by composing an academic paper of max 5.000 words
- 2 EC (56 hrs.)
- Lectures: 2 hrs. x 10 = 20 hrs.
- Preparation self-study: 20 hrs.
- Exposures + preparation: 6 hrs.
- Final presentation + preparation: 10 hrs.
Costs
- Course fee: €425.00
- Included: Course + course materials
- Housing fee: €250
- Housing provider: Utrecht Summer School
The course fee is 425 EUR, including course materials. The housing, food, and public transport costs are excluded.
To avail of an exclusive early bird discount, secure your place in our summer school by March 1st and enjoy a €50 reduction, bringing the total cost to €375.
Financially disadvantaged students who are interested in attending this summer school program have the opportunity to apply for scholarships by writing a persuasive letter that explains their desire to participate in this course and the benefits it will have on their future academic endeavors.
A limited number of scholarships are available on request. Please contact the course coordinator for more information.
The housing costs include housing, plus a Utrecht Summer School sleeping bag, for you to keep. This sleeping bag also includes an inflatable pillow and matrass cover. If you wish to bring your own bedding, please contact us, so we can give you a 50 EUR discount on the housing fee. Please note that you cannot buy individual bedding items.
Registration deadline
1 May 2024
Contact details
Course coordinator: Laura Kjøller Petersen, BA, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 2802210@student.vu.nl