IFDC1210 – Theological Exploration of Disability in the Old Testament

This course will examine the biblical representations of disability in the Old Testament. Learners will address the historical and cultural lenses through which Jewish traditions understood physical and mental disabilities. Learners will also engage in discussions on how disability is constructed in ancient contexts and its impact on modern interpretations and theological reflections on justice and human dignity.

As you prepare for the course, please reflect on these questions: 

• What are the blueprints that the Old Testament outlined for us regarding those with disabilities? 
• What are the Hebrew Bible’s ideas of mental and physical disability? 
• How were the biblical representations of disability formed in both the Old Testament and the New Testament? 

Learners are required to have the following books for this class:

• The Bible (please try to use a different format than you are used to: hard copy, online access or audio)
• Disability in the Hebrew Bible: Interpreting Mental and Physical Differences written by Saul M. Olyan

In addition to Blackboard requirements, 1 optional Zoom meeting will be held every other week at times determined with learner input. The meetings will not be recorded.

This course is eligible for 3.0 CEU.