Understanding the Old Testament

By: Professor Robert D. Miller II, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Professor Robert D. Miller II

Length: 11 hrs and 5 mins

Publisher's summary

The Old Testament is one of the foundational texts of Western civilization, and is among the most impactful and widely read books in world history. In 24 enthralling lectures, Professor Miller guides you through a core selection of the major books of the Old Testament, inviting you to probe their meaning and relevance in incisive and thought-provoking commentary. Among the books of the Old Testament, you’ll explore:

• Genesis: Uncover fascinating features of the Old Testament’s opening, such as how the events of the first week of creation form an elaborate pattern, expressing the complex order of the universe; and how the text does not lay primary blame for “the fall” on the woman, Eve;
• Deuteronomistic History: Study the epic history of the people of Israel in the Promised Land; follow the story of the Israelites’ disobedience to God, and its tragic consequences;
• The Prophets: Through the dramatic stories of the prophets, take account of the challenges faced by those who sought to actualize God’s plan for humanity;
• The Books of Ruth and Esther: Among notable women in the Old Testament, explore two stories of women who are doubly at risk, and who prevail through loyalty, resourcefulness, and integrity; and
• Daniel and the Apocalyptic: In the Book of Daniel, encounter the genre of apocalyptic literature - revelation initiated by God - and contemplate the figure of “the Son of Man,” a promised redeemer.

Throughout the lectures, Professor Miller offers a wealth of perspectives on how to approach the texts. You’ll assess the role of translation in the understanding of the texts, studying the meanings of key Hebrew words; you’ll also look in depth at the history, dating, and writing of the texts, and you’ll study their literary and linguistic features, noting how they achieve their impact on the reader.

In Understanding the Old Testament, you’ll take a revelatory look at this epically impactful document, finding its deeper historical and religious meanings, as well as its sublime literary treasures.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2019 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2019 The Great Courses

wow

insightful presentation of uber complicated material. evidence based, clear and enthusiastic not preachy. professor exhibits knowledge in masterly detail. this is scholarly history with soul.

Knowledgeable

Excellent insight into these ancient writings. He brings knowledge of Hebrew and History into his presentation.

Finally, he is not a disrespectful skeptic.

Excelente

El profesor es un experto en el tema y en como explicarlo. Buscaré otros cursos de él.

exceptional

Best audible I've ever listened to. Packed with information and really makes you rethink a lot of stuff.

standard overview

the course has a current of apologetic aim toward a christian view but found it to be fair and scholarly

Informative

Professor Miller goes into great detail of the literary and historical contexts for the Old Testament. With these two approaches you’re able to see the uniqueness of the Old Testament and how it compared to other religions in that part of the world, the near east. I really enjoyed these lectures as well as professor Miller’s close reading of the text; makes me want to take classes on the Old Testament books.

Best Lecture I have had in a long time.

This was the most pleasant learning experience I have had in a long time! I was absolutely floored by the easy of understanding and the readers ability to keep my attention. Lets face it the fact the the writer and reader are one in the same make a great difference to one's contextual understanding. A natural in the lecturing arena!! Haveing knowledge is one thing but the ability to articulate it is another. Much praise for the gift of teaching that is clearly on his life!

great read!

all the things you wondered or thought you knew are expertly explained in detail

Not captivating be certainly interesting.

One has to be prepared to be, totally overwhelmed by the facts presented. I am by no means a scholar and keeping up with all the facts was a bit confusing. Professor Miller presented his scholarly opinions either as his opinions or giving what were interpretations of other academic colleagues. All in all I found this lecture series very interesting and informative.

Give it a go

The professor is very easy to listen to (I listen on 1.45x speed) and it's all very fascinating, there seems to be no bias as he discusses mythological and historical alike while attempting to cover all avenues of both topics. It's certainly at least worth 1 full listen