REL 3240 - The Problem of Evil

Goals: To chart the variety of biblical responses to the experience of suffering. To study in depth one of the key voices in that response. To reflect critically on the place of suffering in one’s own value system.

Content: Selected Old and New Testament texts, with special attention to the Book of Job. Views of suffering as demonic vengeance, just punishment, divine instruction, or occasion for communion with God will be inspected in their biblical contexts and evaluated in the light of contemporary experience.

Taught: Alternate years.

Credits: 4 credits