Ph.D. in Historical Theology: Paleo-Hebrew & Hebraic History

Concentration: Paleo-Hebrew and Hebraic History from a Hebrew perspective

Equipping scholars with in-depth knowledge of biblical, archaeological, linguistic, and historical studies related to ancient Israel and its theological developments.

This curriculum, including core and specialized courses, research components, and practical training:

• Program Duration: 3-5 years (variable based on research progress)

• Total Credits: 60-72 credits, including coursework, comprehensive exams, research, and dissertation.

Year 1-2: Foundational Coursework & Language Studies

Core Courses:

1. THL 7010 — Advanced Biblical Hebrew and Paleo-Hebrew Script (4 credits)

   Mastery of Hebrew language, including Paleo-Hebrew script, grammar, and textual analysis.

1. THL 7020 — Hebraic Cultural and Historical Contexts (4 credits)

   Study of ancient Near Eastern cultures, archaeological findings, and cultural practices.

2. THL 7030 — Theological Developments in Ancient Israel (4 credits)

   Historical progression of Israelite theology from early periods to Second Temple Judaism.

3. THL 7040 — Paleo-Hebrew Inscriptions and Epigraphy (3 credits)

   Analysis of inscriptions, seals, and artifacts written in Paleo-Hebrew.

4. THL 7050 — Ancient Near Eastern Religions and Their Influence (3 credits)

   Comparison of Israelite religion with Canaanite, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and other traditions.

5. THL 7060 — Archaeology of Ancient Israel (4 credits)

   Study of key archaeological sites, artifacts, and their historical implications.

6. THL 7070 — Research Methods in Hebraic Studies (2 credits)

   Qualitative and quantitative research techniques, textual criticism, and historiography.

Year 3-4: Specialized Research & Literature Review

Advanced Seminars:

1. THL 8010 — Paleo-Hebrew Linguistics and Paleography (3 credits)

   In-depth study of Paleo-Hebrew scripts, linguistic features, and inscriptions.

2. THL 8020 — Hebraic Identity and Religion in Ancient Texts (3 credits)

   Analysis of biblical and extrabiblical texts to understand Hebraic identity.

3. THL 8030 — Critical Textual Analysis of Hebrew Scriptures (4 credits)

   Textual variants, manuscript traditions, and historical-critical methods.

4. THL 8040 — Comparative Studies in Ancient Religions (3 credits)

   Cross-cultural examination of religious motifs and practices.

5. THL 8050 — Seminar in Ancient Hebraic Literature and Poetics (3 credits)

   Literary analysis of biblical poetry, wisdom literature, and prophetic texts.

6. THL 8060 — Dissertation Prospectus Development (2 credits)

   Proposal of dissertation topic, research questions, methodology.

Year 4-5: Dissertation Research & Defense

• - Dissertation Research: Original research integrating Paleo-Hebrew studies, Hebraic history, and theology.

• - Dissertation Seminar: Regular presentations and peer review.

• - Viva Voce / Defense: Formal dissertation defense before committee.

Additional Components:

• Language Proficiency: Mastery of Biblical Hebrew, Paleo-Hebrew, and possibly other relevant ancient languages (Aramaic, Akkadian, Ugaritic).

• Fieldwork and Archival Research: Visits to archaeological sites, museums, and archives.

• Publication & Presentation: Articles in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations.

Sample Dissertation Topics:

1. "The Evolution of Paleo-Hebrew Script and Its Theological Implications"

2. "Hebraic Identity in the First Millennium BCE: An Archaeological and Textual Analysis"

3. "Reconstructing Ancient Israelite Religion through Paleo-Hebrew Inscriptions"