Comparative Commentaries on Verses of the Pentateuch — ATHE Vocational Religious Studies

The ATHE Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Torah Studies provides an in-depth exploration of the Torah (the Five Books of Moses) as the foundational text of Judaism. This qualification covers the narrative, legal, and theological dimensions of the Torah, examining its historical context, literary structure, and enduring significance. Students will analyse key passages, such as the Creation account, the Exodus narrative, and the giving of the Law at Sinai, while also considering traditional Jewish commentaries like Rashi and Ramban. The course is designed to develop critical thinking and textual analysis skills, preparing students for further study in religious studies, theology, or related humanities disciplines.

This diploma is particularly valuable for students seeking to understand the Torah's role in shaping Jewish identity, ethics, and religious practice. It also explores how the Torah has been interpreted across different periods and movements within Judaism, from ancient rabbinic literature to modern scholarship. By engaging with primary texts and secondary sources, students will gain a nuanced appreciation of the Torah's complexity and its relevance to contemporary issues. The qualification is part of the ATHE Level 3 suite, which is recognised by UK universities and employers for its rigorous academic standards.

Studying Torah at this level requires a commitment to close reading and reflection. Students will learn to evaluate different interpretative approaches, including peshat (plain meaning), remez (allegorical), derash (comparative), and sod (mystical). The course also emphasises the Torah's ethical teachings, such as justice, compassion, and holiness, and how these principles have influenced Western thought. By the end of the diploma, students will have a solid foundation in Torah study and the skills to engage with religious texts critically and respectfully.

• →Torah as Divine Revelation: Understanding the Torah as the revealed word of God given to Moses at Mount Sinai, and its division into the Five Books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
• →Covenant and Chosenness: The concept of brit (covenant) between God and the Israelites, including the Abrahamic and Mosaic covenants, and the idea of the Jewish people as a 'kingdom of priests and a holy nation'.
• →Mitzvot (Commandments): The 613 mitzvot derived from the Torah, categorised into positive and negative commandments, and their role in shaping Jewish law (Halakha) and daily life.
• →Pardes Exegesis: The four levels of Torah interpretation: Peshat (literal), Remez (allegorical), Derash (comparative/homiletical), and Sod (mystical), as a framework for deeper understanding.
• →Torah and History: The Torah's narrative as a foundational history of the Israelites, including key events like the Exodus, the giving of the Torah at Sinai, and the wilderness journey.

• Accurately identifies the commentator and their interpretative approach.
• Provides a clear analysis of the verse using the commentator's method.
• Effectively compares and contrasts two or more commentaries on the same verse.
• Demonstrates understanding of the historical and textual context of the commentaries.

• 💡Use direct quotes from commentaries to support your points.
• 💡Structure comparisons clearly, e.g., point-by-point or commentator-by-commentator.
• 💡Practice with a variety of verses to become familiar with different commentators.
• 💡When analysing a Torah passage, always consider the context: Who is speaking? To whom? What is the historical setting? Examiners look for evidence that you can situate the text within its narrative framework.
• 💡Use traditional commentaries to support your arguments. Citing Rashi or Ramban shows depth of understanding. However, don't just quote—explain how the commentary illuminates the text's meaning.
• 💡Be precise with terminology. For example, distinguish between 'Torah' (the Five Books) and 'Tanakh' (the entire Hebrew Bible). Using terms correctly demonstrates subject mastery.

• Confusing the approaches of different commentators.
• Providing superficial analysis without depth of comparison.
• Neglecting to reference the specific verse being discussed.
• Misconception: The Torah is only a legal code. Correction: While the Torah contains many laws, it is primarily a narrative that includes history, poetry, and theology. The legal sections are embedded within a larger story of God's relationship with humanity.
• Misconception: The Torah is identical to the Old Testament. Correction: The Torah is the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh), but the Old Testament includes additional books like the Prophets and Writings. Also, Jewish and Christian interpretations differ significantly.
• Misconception: All Torah laws are still observed today. Correction: Many laws, especially those related to the Temple and sacrifices, are not applicable after the Temple's destruction. Rabbinic Judaism adapted Torah laws to new circumstances through interpretation.

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