How and when did Christianity and Judaism become two separate religions? Christianity was born as a messianic movement within Judaism; only gradually has it become something else. And contrary to what is generally assumed, it did not come from the kind of Judaism we know today. Rabbinic Judaism and Christianity are not in a parent-child relationship; they are twin religions that emerged from the diverse world of Second Temple Judaism. The course will explore what each movement has kept from the ancient tradition of Israel and what each has changed and innovated.

Course Requirements:

In a seminar format, there will be a midterm, a final exam, and an individual research paper.

Intended Audience:

Undergraduate students interested in Religion, Judaism, Christianity, the Bible, and interreligious dialogue

Class Format:

Two 90-minute meetings weekly. As a DC (Distance due to COVID) course, all aspects of this course will be fully compatible with remote online learning. Students must be available for virtual class meetings on Tuesdays and Thursdays from T/Th 5:30-7:00pm.