A very general definition of "Scripture" is "a body of writings considered sacred or authoritative" (from Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary).

In this class we are looking at three traditions in which Scriptures play a central role, but not all religious consider a series of texts authoritative. Why should Judaism, Christianity, and Islam? What do they get out of Scriptures? What limitations do Scriptures place on these traditions? How flexible are Scriptures?

To consider the centrality of Scriptures in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam it's necessary discuss the importance of "sacred or authoritative texts." Before coming to section, jot down some answers to the following questions:

1. Think of one text in your life (apart from the Bible of Qur'an) that you would consider "sacred or authoritative."

(Beware: You may have to define more carefully "sacred" and "authoritative" before you can answer that question! Think of all categories of your life, including: politics, family, school, entertainment, and so on.)

Did you have any choice in whether these texts gained this status in your life? How do you know about these texts? What do you know about them? When and how do they exert their authority over you? How accessible is this text?

2. For who else is this text "sacred or authoritative"?

Do you feel any special relationship to these people? Do you know them? Do you make assumptions about them--their character, their beliefs, their positions on ideas or issues? Can you think of people who consider the same texts "sacred or authoritative," but hold entirely different opinions about these texts?

3. Would you like other people to know about this text? What would you tell them about it?

Could you convince someone else to consider this text "sacred or authoritative"? Why would you want to (or why wouldn't you want to)?

4. Is your text open to interpretation?

Are there parts of your text you have to "fill in" to make it meaningful? Would others "fill it in" in the same way as you? How do you know what kinds of interpretation are permissible or not?

5. What does any of this have to do with the study of religious scriptures?

(To consider this question as a group, use Genesis 2 or Exodus 20 and go through questions 2-4.)