This course is part of a two-semester sequence (with RB 401). The overall goal of the two- semester sequence is to introduce students to the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible. This is an introductory survey of the Pentateuch and Writings. The messages of each book are explored in light of their historical, geographical, literary, and theological contexts. Special attention is given to major approaches to the study of the Old Testament, as well as methodological issues in the Christological interpretation of the Old Testament.