Biblical Interpretation

Journal Reflection Review

From the 6 ways to interpret the Bible, which way do you naturally read with? Which one would you like to explore more? Why?

Historical Context

Being aware of the history behind the Bible’s books and stories.The more you know about history (specifically as it pertains to biblical events), the more you will understand words/events“What is the historical situation at the time this book was written? How did the human author(s) address this situation?

Literary Context

Different literary styles used to write the various books of the Bible

StoriesReligious HistoryCollectionsLettersSymbolism

“What is this book or passage’s literary genre? What are the rules for understanding it?”

Cultural ContextAddresses the culture in which the passage was written in

Looks at what would have been the ‘norm’ for these peoplesRitualsPoliticsRivalries/Enemies (locally, other nations)

Typically part of the ‘historical’ context“Is there a cultural practice or attitude reflected in this book or passage that we need to understand to appreciate the human author’s intention?”

Unity of the Whole Scripture Context

Looks at how the book we are reading independently fits within the larger context of the entire BibleWe see God’s bigger plan emerging/developing for the salvation of God’s people

Salvation HistoryAsks “How does this book/passage fit into salvation history?”“How does this book or story fit into the overall story of salvation history?”

Living Tradition Context

Looks at the oral tradition that was/was not included in scripturesUnderstand the Bible through including the Tradition of the Church“How does Sacred Tradition help us to understand this book or story? How does this book or story help us to better understand God’s revealed truths in Sacred Tradition?”

Harmony Between Elements of Faith Context

Also called “Analogy of Faith”No contradiction between God’s TruthsMay look like contradictions, but that is through our view (not God’s)“Is the truth I understand from this book or story consistent with the rest of the Scriptures and Tradition?”

When I look at everything I

learned from the various

interpretations of scripture, what

spiritual truth is God revealing?