Associate of Arts in Divinity Studies

Core Competencies for an Associate of Arts in Divinity Studies (Hebrew Perspective):

1. Proficiency in Biblical Languages (8-12 credits)

• - Basic proficiency in Hebrew (and possibly Greek for New Testament studies)

• - Ability to read and interpret biblical texts in their original languages

• - Understanding of Hebrew grammar, syntax, and vocabulary

2. Biblical Literacy and Exegesis (3)

• - Familiarity with the structure, themes, and historical context of the Old Testament (Tanakh)

• - Ability to perform basic biblical exegesis and hermeneutical analysis

• - Understanding of biblical genres, literary devices, and narrative techniques

3. Hebrew History and Culture (3)

• - Knowledge of ancient Israelite (Yashar'ali) history, culture, and society

• - Insight into the geographical and archaeological context of biblical events

• - Awareness of ancient Yashar'ali regional cultures that influenced biblical texts

4. Theology and Doctrine from a Hebrew Perspective (3)

• - Understanding of core biblical doctrines (God, creation, sin, covenant, redemption)

• - Emphasis on the Hebrew Bible’s theological themes and their relationship to Christian theology

• - Appreciation of Jewish theological concepts and their influence on biblical interpretation

5. Ethics and Moral Principles (3)

• - Study of biblical ethical teachings

• - Application of biblical morals to contemporary issues

6. Research and Critical Thinking (3)

• - Ability to analyze biblical texts critically

• - Development of research skills related to biblical studies

• - Familiarity with scholarly resources and biblical commentaries

7. Practical Ministry Skills (3)

• - Basic skills in teaching, preaching, and pastoral care rooted in biblical principles

• - Understanding of worship and community life from a Hebrew biblical perspective

8. Interfaith and Cultural Awareness (3)

• - Appreciation of Jewish and biblical diversity

• - Respectful engagement with other faith traditions and cultures

Typical Course Components:

1. - Introduction to Hebrew Language

2. - The TANAKH/Old Testament Survey

3. - The Apocrypha Survey

4. - Biblical Exegesis and Hermeneutics

5. - Biblical Archaeology and History

6. - Theology of the Hebrew Bible

7. - Ethics in Biblical Perspective

8. - Worship and Liturgy in Hebrew Tradition

9. - Practical Ministry & Leadership Skills

With specialized tracks, additional courses are tailored to equip students with the specific skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary for each focus area:

Urban Ministry Track: Focus on City-Based Congregational Leadership (9-12 additional credits or more)

1. - Urban Contexts and Challenges: Understanding social, economic, and cultural issues in urban environments.

2. - City Ministry and Community Engagement: Strategies for outreach, evangelism, and building community in urban settings.

3. - Leadership and Administration in Urban Congregations: Congregation management, organizational leadership, and resource development.

4. - Cultural Competency and Diversity: Engaging effectively with diverse urban populations.

5. - Urban Social Issues and Biblical Responses: Addressing homelessness, poverty, violence, and other urban issues scripturally.

6. - Mentorship and Discipleship in Urban Settings: Developing leadership among urban youth and marginalized groups.

Community Organizing Track: Faith-Based Social Justice Advocacy (9-12 additional credits or more)

1. - Social Justice and Biblical Ethics: Theologically grounded approaches to justice, advocacy, and social change.

2. - Community Organizing and Mobilization: Principles and strategies of faith-based activism.

3. - Public Policy and Advocacy: Understanding government systems, policy development, and lobbying.

4. - Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue: Building coalitions and working across faith communities.

5. - History of Social Movements in Faith Contexts: Study of faith-inspired social justice movements.

6. - Legal and Ethical Issues in Advocacy: Navigating legal frameworks and ethical considerations.

Chaplaincy Track: Preparation for Institutional Chaplaincy Roles (6-9 additional credits or more)

1. - Pastoral Care and Counseling: Skills for providing emotional and spiritual support in institutional settings.

2. - Crisis Intervention and Trauma Response: Handling urgent and sensitive situations.

3. - Healthcare and Hospital Chaplaincy: Understanding medical ethics, patient care, and hospital protocols.

4. - Military and Institutional Chaplaincy: Specific needs of military, prison, or correctional facilities.

5. - Spiritual Assessment and Interfaith Ministry: Serving diverse faith backgrounds and spiritual needs.

6. - Ethics in Institutional Settings: Navigating confidentiality, end-of-life issues, and institutional policies.

General Recommendations:

• - Internship or Practicum: Practical experience in each track, such as urban church ministry, social justice projects, or hospital chaplaincy.

• - Leadership and Communication Skills: Courses or workshops on effective leadership, conflict resolution, and public speaking relevant to each specialization.