One of the earliest translations of the Bible was a Syriac version, the Peshitta. Ever since, as well as generating a wealth of exegetical literature, a biblical perspective has permeated all aspects of Syriac culture and tradition. To this day its influence pervades Syriac linguistics, historiography, narrative literature, poetry and philosophy. But whilst its importance has remained constant down the centuries, the Bible%E2%80%99s reception and interpretation has been reshaped continuously by the ever-changing challenges facing Syriac Christianity %E2%80" from the dogmatic controversies in the early church, through the dramatic social and religious transformations in the Middle East in the wake of the Arab conquest to the growth of a diaspora community in Western countries in modern times.

Course leader
Prof. Wido van Peursen

Target group
Students of Religious Studies, Theology, Divinity, Biblical Studies, Classics, Philosophy, History and Social Sciences.

Course aim
You gain a broad knowledge of the most significant characteristics of Syriac Christianity, its history and theology.You understand the complex interaction between the Bible's influence on Syriac culture and the way that culture has shaped reception of the Bible.You understand the complex interrelationship between interpretation and identity-formation in Syriac Christianity.

Credits info
2 ECTS Contact hours: 25

Fee info
EUR 475: Includes orientation and course material. Does not include housing.

Scholarships
The Amsterdam Summer School offers twenty scholarships of 500 for highly motivated students. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is 1 April. Application for the scholarship is part of the general online application procedure.

VU University Amsterdam
Address: Study Abroad in Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105 Amsterdam
Postal code: 1081 HV
City: Amsterdam
Country: Netherlands
Website: http://www.studyabroadinamsterdam.nl/en/summerschool/index.asp
E-mail: amsterdamsummerschool@vu.nl
Phone: +31 20 5986506