Deep Dive into Introduction to Biblical Interpretation by William W. Klein, Craig L. Blomberg, and Robert L. Hubbard Jr. - General Rules of Hermeneutics: Prose

The fundamental goal of biblical interpretation is to discover the meaning that the original authors intended. Achieving this accurate interpretation requires the conscious analysis of five essential elements of written communication: literary context, historical-cultural background, word meanings, grammatical relationships, and literary genre.

Literary context is considered the single most important principle of hermeneutics, as it provides the most reliable guide for determining the accurate meaning of words and establishing the writer's flow-of-thought. Since most words possess a range of meanings, the context defines the precise meaning intended. Literary study proceeds through concentric domains, starting with the immediate context (the material immediately before and after a passage) and proceeding outward to the entire book and the entire Bible. The paragraph is typically considered the basic unit of thought in prose.

Historical-cultural background is equally crucial because the correct interpretation must be consistent with the way of life, language, and customs of the ancient world. There are three key reasons for this study: it helps readers comprehend the perspective of the original communicators; it reveals the mindset or value system of people in biblical times, preventing modern anachronisms; and it is fundamental for accurate contextualization. Contextualization requires using "interpretive bifocals," looking back to the intended meaning and forward to expressing that message effectively today, conveying the same sense and emotional impact. Knowledge of the ancient setting is the safeguard against syncretism, which is the blending of biblical and nonbiblical beliefs.

Grammar and structure must also be utilized, as every passage must be interpreted consistent with its morphology (word forms) and syntax (word combinations). Grammatical analysis ensures understanding how words and clauses interact to form the writer’s arguments, especially since nuances in the original languages (Hebrew and Greek) are often obscured in English translations.

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