As you prepare for the “interpreting the text” assignment you should read the assignment for the day as indicated in your syllabus. I would also encourage you to go to the library and look in the biblical studies section for some additional commentary on the book.
The following questions may help direct your thoughts.
What is the main plot?
How do you understand the beginning family dynamics of Jephthah? Does that play a role later in his life?
Describe the problems of Jephthah’s vow. Why make such a vow?
Why does Jephthah fulfill his vow?
What does this story say about the role of women in Hebrew society?
In what voice is the story written in?
What questions would you bring to the text that have not been asked?
This paper is the brief summary of the major critical work surrounding your assigned text. The paper should be 5-7 pages in length, contain cogent and well supported research, and offer a glimpse into the nature of biblical scholarship.
This is an assignment designed to familiarize the student with the work of biblical scholarship. No one is expecting you to write a thesis. Research your topic well, looking for both points of view you agree with and those you do not. Providing a counterpoint to agree upon point shows scholastic maturity and may assist in your own understanding of the text.