This course provides an essential exploration of the cultural world in which Scripture was written, helping students understand the daily life, social structures, traditions, and practices of ancient Israel and the surrounding Near Eastern cultures. By studying the manners and customs of biblical times—family life, hospitality, dress, agriculture, worship, government, and community rhythms—students gain deeper insight into the meaning and context of Scripture.
Through historical background, archaeological findings, and careful examination of key biblical passages, learners discover how cultural understanding illuminates parables, laws, narratives, and teachings that may otherwise seem unfamiliar to modern readers. The course emphasizes how grasping ancient customs enriches interpretation, strengthens preaching and teaching, and enhances personal Bible study.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped to read Scripture with cultural clarity, recognizing how God revealed His truth within real human settings and how those settings shape the message of the Bible today.