Primary Sources
The primary source is whatever serves as the primary object of research and the basis of the argument (note: not all papers have a primary source; see the Research Processes tab for more information). If a student is writing a biblical exegesis paper, then the biblical passage is the primary source. If a student is writing on Martin Luther's doctrine of justification, then Luther's commentaries and sermons are the primary sources. If a student is writing a theology paper, the primary source depends on the angle they take in the paper. If they are attempting to define a doctrine according to the Bible, then the Bible is the primary source. However, if they are engaging Karl Barth's doctrine of the church, then Karl Barth's Church Dogmatics will serve as the primary source. Students should evaluate the primary source(s) on their own before reading secondary sources. They should develop their own, original thoughts on the topic. Moreover, they should spend a significant portion of time on this step in the research process.
1. Online Resources
ATLA Historical Monographs Collections
Comprehensive Aramaic Lexicon Project
Dead Sea Scrolls Electronic Library of Biblical Texts
Documenting the American South
Pastmasters (Full Text Humanities)
Syriac Studies Reference Library
2. Print Resources
Many primary sources are only available in print format. To access them, you can search our print collection in WorldCat.
If you have more questions about accessing primary sources, please visit the Reference Desk or setup a Research Appointment.
If you are off-campus, you will need to use your Campusnet login information to access the online resources.