SIG

CLASSROOM COURSE

InDepth: Parables

How to Read Them for Then and Rewrite Them for Now

The parables of Jesus are the best known of all his words, yet they are frequently mis-understood. In this course we study the art of comparison, how parables, allegories, metaphors and similes work and how they don’t. We also learn how to discern Jesus’ several purposes in making these artful comparisons. When was a parable meant to be ambiguous, to leave the audience with something to think about rather than a clear answer? When was the parable meant to entertain as much as teach? When was Jesus catching his audience in their own hypocrisy? And finally we learn and practice the ancient art of rabbinic “targum,” a neat trick for bringing new life to an old story.

Registration fee includes tuition, Participant Study Guide and sales tax for this class.