The Message of Joel – Then and Now
Instructor: Ernst Wendland
Description:
**Hebrew recommended but not required**
In this course, we will review some of the main poetic, structural, and rhetorical devices of biblical Hebrew poetry with special reference to Joel’s prophetic style and his contextual setting. A group reading of the entire book of Joel in Hebrew will include a detailed exegetical, linguistic, literary, and oratorical analysis along with a comparative review of popular Bible translations, whether in English or other languages. Our mutual aim is to better understand the prophet’s dramatic message in the original language with a view towards effectively communicating its meaning and relevance to a contemporary audience or readership. A course workbook has been prepared to guide our way through the text of Joel, and participants will be assigned specific verses to serve as discussion leaders. Special attention will be devoted to passages that are similar to those found elsewhere in the OT or NT as well as those of theological importance or which may have a significant practical application in today’s multifaceted pastoral ministry.