Biblical wisdom literature
(DVD)

Course guidebook includes scope, outline, glossary, bibliography, suggested readings, and questions to consider for each lecture.

In his 36 lectures, Father Joseph W. Koterski talks about the body of writings from the Old Testament that have influenced theologians, philosophers, and laypeople for millennia. He presents these teachings within the Jewish and Christian traditions and compares the varying versions of these texts. (THIS IS A SET. Book and DVDs must be checkout together)

In the history of wisdom literature, no tradition matches the solace and profundity found in the teachings of the Bible. For centuries, people have taken comfort and insight from the familiar yet eternally resonant writings of the Bible's wisdom literature: "There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens." (book of Qoheleth) "How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!" (book of Proverbs) "A faithful friend is beyond price. No sum can balance his worth." (book of Sirach) "Blessed are they who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Beatitudes of Jesus) Through their inspirational teachings, the sages of the biblical wisdom tradition offer time-honored advice about some of life's most difficult questions: What is the reward of virtue? What is the best way to raise one's children? How can we best deal with the uncertainty of life? For countless people, these ancient writings have offered consolation and insight into the very meaning of existence. And yet, few of us realize that these great teachings are part of a larger tradition, a rich and complex body of writings that have influenced theologians, philosophers, and everyday men and women for millennia. The insights offered in this tradition and their efforts to integrate faith and reason, revelation and human wisdom rival those of the renowned philosophical schools of ancient Greece. (THIS IS A SET. Book and DVDs must be checkout together)