Parshanut Through Art: The High School Student as Biblical Commentator

Abstract

The following research study presents data drawn from an arts-based qualitative research study from 2013. Students created artistic interpretations of biblical texts using a variety of media. One of the significant findings of the study was that learning through the arts provided students with an opportunity to take on the role of parshan, or biblical commentator. Three examples of artwork is presented and combined, they show that by taking on the role of parshan, students were able to craft original interpretations of text and develop new connections with the text. Learning in this way demonstrated the significance of integrating the arts into Bible curricula as a vehicle for developing new types of positive and educational experiences for students.

Notes

¹ Readers interested in examples of personal responses to the text are encouraged to read Reingold (2014, 2015).

² While Lehmann’s study focused on Orthodox institutions, the majority of CHAT’s Bible teachers subscribe to the way of teaching Bible outlined in Lehmann’s study.

³ All students have been provided pseudonyms to protect their identities.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Matt Reingold

Matt Reingold recently completed his doctoral dissertation from York University’s Faculty of Education in Toronto, Canada. He currently teachers at TanenbaumCHAT in Toronto. E-mail: [email protected]