The Literal Language of the Bible And The Literal Method Of Biblical Interpretation.

To comprehend the literal language of the Bible and literal interpretation of the Bible. A biblical chapter should be viewed in light of the “plain meaning” that its linguistic structure and historical context indicate.

The Literal Language of the Bible And The Literal Method Of Biblical Interpretation.

The literal reading of the Bible is thought to capture the writers’ intended meaning. Extreme versions of this hypothesis are contested because they fall short of providing a satisfactory explanation for the distinct vocabulary and writing style employed by the various biblical authors. This is due to the fact that they don’t offer an adequate justification for the various authors’ usage of distinctive vocabulary or writing styles.

This spirit of literal interpretation is that we should be satisfied with the literal meaning of a text unless very substantial reasons for advancing beyond the literal meaning.

The literal method of interpreting the Bible is to accept as basic the literal message of the sentence unless by virtue of the nature Of the sentences, phrases or clauses within the sentence.
For example, figures of speech or fables or allegories do not admit to a literal interpretation.

The literal method of interpretation is that method that gives to each word the same exact basic meaning it would have in normal, ordinary, customary usage, whether employed in writing, speaking or thinking. it is called the GRAMATICALL
HISTORICAL METHOD, to emphasise the fact that the meaning is to be determined by both grammatical and
historical considerations.

A literal interpretation does not exclude the use of symbols, allegories, metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech.

We adhere to the natural sense of the text rather than taking it literally. We interpret the Bible literally where this is clear. Jesus instructed men to do this, but this does not mean that we must cut off our right hand or remove our eye to enter heaven. We acknowledge that the Bible occasionally uses poetic or allegoric language. Because it is obvious from reading the narratives that Jesus truly resurrected in His body, we believe in the bodily resurrection of Jesus. However, it is not necessary for us to assume that Isaiah witnessed the hills clapping and leaping.

“When the Bible refers to James, Cephas, and John as “Pillars of the church,” the literal interpreter is not so stupid as to take that to mean that they are literal pillars.

When reading about Christ underneath these images, an interpreter doesn’t search for a real door, vine, or lamb. The use of these images, along with a variety of others like fresh birth, the straight gate, etc., greatly enriches the Bible. It is crucial to note that figurative language does not alter the actual meaning of the text; rather, it merely conveys it in a different way ” Figures of speech are acceptable forms of grammar.

” That is to say, behind the figures stands literal or real truth which gives the figure meaning.
In the use of this method the interpreter seeks to arrive at the precise meaning of the language of each of the Bible writers as required by the laws of grammar and the fact of history and that is where we derive the term GRAMMATICAL HISTORICAL INTERPRETATION.

This is the method that most fully completes the judgment and conscience of Christian scholars. The interpreter seeks to know the thought of the writer of the passage by the application of the recognized rules of grammar in the light of the historical situation in which the writer produced his Work.
The interpreter with suitable qualifications; Spiritual, Educational and intellectual will accept the claims of the BIble without Prejudice or adverse prepossession, and, with no ambition to prove them true or false, will investigate the language and import of the book with fearless independence.

He will master the language of the writer, the particular dialect which he used, and the peculiar style and manner of expression. He will inquire into the circumstances under which he wrote, the manners and customs of his age, and the purpose or object which he had in view. He has a right to assume that no sensible author

 

LITERAL METHOD OF INTERPRETATION.

This spirit of literal interpretation is that we should be satisfied with the literal meaning of a text unless very substantial reasons for advancing beyond the literal meaning.

The literal method of interpreting the Bible is to accept as basic the literal message of the sentence unless by virtue of the nature Of the sentences, phrases or clauses within the sentence.
For example, figures of speech or fables or allegories do not admit to a literal interpretation.

The literal method of interpretation is that method that gives to each word the same exact basic meaning it would have in normal, ordinary, customary usage, whether employed in writing, speaking or thinking. it is called the GRAMATICALL
HISTORICAL METHOD, to emphasise the fact that the meaning is to be determined by both grammatical and
historical considerations.

A literal interpretation does not exclude the use of symbols, allegories, metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech.

We adhere to the natural sense of the text rather than taking it literally. We interpret the Bible literally where it is clear.

When Jesus instructed men to do this, this does not mean that we must cut off our right hand or remove our eye to enter heaven. We acknowledge that the Bible occasionally uses poetic or allegoric language.

Because it is obvious from reading the narratives that Jesus truly resurrected in His body, we believe in the bodily resurrection of Jesus. However, it is not necessary for us to assume that Isaiah witnessed the hills clapping and leaping- Isaiah55:12.

“When the Bible refers to James, Cephas, and John as “Pillars- Gal 2:9 of the church,” the literal interpreter is not so stupid as to take that to mean that they are literal pillars.

When reading about Christ underneath these images, an interpreter doesn’t search for a real door- jn. 10:7, vine- jn15:1, or lamb of God- jn. 1:29. The use of these images, along with a variety of others like New birth – john 3:3, the straight gate, Needle eye – matt 19:24, mk. 10:25, lk. 18:25 etc., they greatly enriches the Bible. It is crucial to note that figurative language does not alter the actual meaning of the text; rather, it merely conveys it in a different way ” Figures of speech are acceptable forms of grammar.

” That is to say, behind the figures stands literal or real truth which gives the figure meaning.

In the use of this method the interpreter seeks to arrive at the precise meaning of the language of each of the Bible writers as required by the laws of grammar and the fact of history and that is where we derive the term GRAMMATICAL HISTORICAL INTERPRETATION.

This is the method that most fully completes the judgment and conscience of Christian scholars. The interpreter seeks to know the thought of the writer of the passage by the application of the recognized rules of grammar in the light of the historical situation in which the writer produced his Work.
The interpreter with suitable qualifications; Spiritual, Educational and intellectual will accept the claims of the BIble without Prejudice or adverse prepossession, and, with no ambition to prove them true or false, will investigate the language and import of the book with fearless independence.

He will master the language of the writer, the particular dialect which he used, and the peculiar style and manner of expression. He will inquire into the circumstances under which he wrote, the manners and customs of his age, and the purpose or object which he had in view. He has a right to assume that no sensible author will be knowingly inconsistent with himself, or seek to be wider and mislead his readers.

will be knowingly inconsistent with himself, or seek to be wider and mislead his readers.

WE MIGHT OUTLINE THIS THEORY THUS;

a) its purpose is to find the meaning of the writer. Its tools are the rules of grammar applied Consciously.

b)unconsciously, When we. Following this theory of interpretation, we examine the construction of the sentences in our search for the truth. We analyze, compare and explain
c) It takes note of the historical situation and the way in which it affects the use and meaning of words (the author and the recipient’s historical situations).

d) It takes the statement of the scripture at its face value.
e) It gives first consideration to the open, obvious meaning of the passage and to the applications given by the writers.
f) It does not try to avoid the doctrinal and moral teachings of the Bible by bringing in one’s own fantastic explanations.

When determining the fundamentals of reliable and coherent exegesis of the Bible. It would be wise to be aware of the various approaches and systems to interpretation that have been used by others before us. Many of them have been tried and taught, but many are not satisfactory.

Different Methods Of Interpretation.

Even while we are quite proud of the accomplishments of these men from earlier times, we may have criticisms of some of the methods used. In actuality, history demonstrates how erroneous principles have damaged the exegetical efforts of persons who were once great saints.

This should serve as a caution to us against poor interpretation. Let’s examine the majority of the techniques that hermeneuticians still employ today.

1. The allegorical theory of interpretation

The truth and history of the Bible are denied by the allegorical technique. The Bible has been interpreted in many imaginative ways when it is thought of as allegory. Instead of taking the Bible’s sayings and stories at face value, interpretation hinges on the interpreter’s imagination. According to the allegorical interpretation school of thought, the true meaning of God’s word is obscured beneath the surface of the evidence.
What the interpretation wants to convey takes precedence over what the original author is trying to communicate, which is ignored.
The Bible contains allegories, so it is only appropriate to treat them as such. An allegory is a narrative (often made up) in which each character, setting, and action represents spiritual truth. The things that the characters symbolically symbolize in an allegory should be considered rather than the statement or story itself when determining the allegory’s meaning. The allegory of Pilgrim’s Progress is well-known. Additionally, the Bible contains allegories Both the allegory of “the true vine” in John 15 and the parable of “the good shepherd” in John 10. But the large part of the Bible should not be interpreted as allegory.

2. mystical theory of interpretation.

The mystical, which seeks to find the myriad depths and shades of meaning in each word of scripture, is closely related to the allegorical interpretation of the Bible. Those who possess the mystical key that opens this knowledge can acquire the mystical theory of interpretation, which has a hidden, deeper significance.

deeper meaning which can be learned by those who know the mystical key which unlocks this knowledge, or those divinely appointed can interpret. Some mystical interpreters search “the numbers and figures of the Bible looking for the key that Will unlock this hidden wisdom.

3. PIETISTIC THEORY OF INTERPRETATION

The Bible’s outward teachings are less significant to pietists than the “inner light” that God bestows upon us. Even though it might not be related to the passage’s obvious significance, God frequently illuminates the Bible for us.
The disciples’ enthusiasm and impression were so intense that it appeared to them that Jesus had miraculously walked on the sea to help them.

Jesus knew the true nature of the case and arrived at the appropriate time at the tomb. His force and knowledge left a deep and enduring impression. Lazarus slipped into a swoon but did not actually pass away despite being believed to be dead.

The Red Sea’s division is not a miracle; rather, it is the result of seasonal events, in which the water level has dropped to a point where humans can cross on foot.

The issue with this interpretation is that it bases every explanation of the Bible on what the reader believes to be true rather than what the writer really saw to be true. Some readings of the Bible hold that God, who created the natural rules, has the power to transcend them. The belief that God doesn’t perform miracles is based on a very shaky foundation, as is the ignorance of the fact that God, as the creator of natural laws, is able to transcend all.

In the modern era, the argument over the Bible pits rationalism against authoritarianism. Rationalism in Bible studies essentially states that everything that is at odds with a rational mindset should be disregarded. The critic gives a very specific definition of education. The fundamental tenet of rationalism in Bible studies is that everything at odds with the rational mind should be discarded. The radical critique of the Bible has resulted from its rationalistic foundation. In general, the following guidelines have guided Christian Liberals as they approach Bible study;

i) The modern mentality is composed of a variety of presuppositions, such as the academic standards used in higher education, the reliability of scientific theories and practices, and the moral standards of the educated. Anything in the scriptural account that does not meet these standards is disregarded. The liberals’ moral sensibilities are offended by the teachings of sin, depravity, and hell, hence these doctrines are disregarded. This also implies that the Bible’s text may be used fairly freely.

ii) Religious liberals Revelation is now described as a person’s insight into the discovery of religious truths. Liberalism must reject a supernaturalistic theology of inspiration and revelation if it opposes any transcendental and miraculous activity on the part of God, which it does. & contends that the Bible’s capacity to elicit religious experience is what constitutes its inspiration.

iii) THE SUPERNATURAL IS REDEFINED.
Liberal Christians contend that while interpreting the Bible, the same approach must be taken as when reading the classics. When the supernatural miracle is mentioned in the Bible, it is regarded as mythology, mythology, or poetic elaboration. Christians are not permitted to make an exception or special claim. If we disbelieve every account of a miracle in the classics, we must also disbelieve the Bible.

The Literal Language of the Bible

A good portion of the Bible is plain, literal language. It was used by the Lord to state facts, names, persons
and places, relate incidents, issue commandments and warnings, and draw conclusions.
Such things should be taken literally and one should not be constantly searching for hidden meanings and fancy figures of speech.
The literal meaning of a word is that meaning which is given by those to whom it is addressed.

Figurative Language

Figurative language involves the use of symbols, stories, or other descriptive means to express truth.

The Purpose of Figurative Language

1. To illustrate and graphically portray truth taught elsewhere in Scripture.
2. To teach things outside our experience. To explain the unseen by the seen.
3. To make the truth stand out more vividly.
4. To make a more lasting impression.
5. To conceal the truth from its enemies.

When Language is Figurative

1. When a literal interpretation involves an impossibility or an absurdity. (Luke 9:60)
2. When literal interpretation involves a contradiction or inconsistency. (John 11:25-26)
3 When a literal interpretation involves an immoral conclusion. (Matthew 18:8-9)
4. When such is implied by the context.
5. When such is stated. John 2:18-21)
6. When common sense determines it to be. (John 4:10-15).

Rules for Understanding Figurative Language

1. Determine what kind of figure it is.
2. Follow the author’s explanation, if he gives one. (Luke 8:11; 12:16-21)
3. Harmonize the figurative with the literal.
4. Harmonize the figurative with the customs of the time.
5. Do not press the meaning too far.
6. Remember that figures of speech may change their meaning from one instance to another and do not always represent the same things. (Matthew 13:33;16:6-12).

Some Figures Of Speech In The Bible.

1. Parable. A simple, normal, real-life story or illustration is used to present some moral truth. The
Scriptures record at least thirty parables that Jesus used in His ministry. They had a way of concealing the truth from those who would not receive or follow it.
2. Fable. A fictitious or imaginary story whose purpose was to teach some moral lesson. (2 Kings
14:8-10)
3. Simile. A thing or action that is said to be “like” or “as” something of a different kind of quality.
(Matthew 3:16; Isaiah 1:18; 53:6)
4. Metaphor. A word or phrase which is said to be something else because of a likeness involved. It is
calling one thing by another word, more descriptive and figurative. (Luke 13:32; Matthew 26:26)
5. Allegory. A metaphor extended into a complete story to illustrate some truth. The writer does not
identify all the particular parts but leaves the reader to infer their meaning. (Ephesians 6:11-17)
6. Riddle. An analogy was written up as a puzzle. To unravel it will thus produce some truth. (Judges 14:14)
7. Hyperbole. An exaggeration of some statements for the purpose of emphasis. (Psalm 22:6,14)
8. Irony and sarcasm. A sharp remark uttered in contempt or ridicule. The latter, sarcasm, is more
severe in degree and intensity. (Matthew 27:29; Mark 15:31,32)
9. Interrogation. To question for effect, often not seeking an answer. It will bring out a point very
strongly or even argue to the contrary. (Hebrews 2:3)
10. Metonymy. To substitute one word for another because they are related. (1 Corinthians 11:25,26;
Acts 15:21)
11. Personification. Inanimate beings have personal attributes. (Psalm 114:3)
12. Anthropomorphism. The ascribing of human forms or attributes to God. (Exodus 33:22,23)

Four Types of Language That Make Great Use of the Figurative.

1. Poetry. The use of artistic and imaginative ideas is expressed in a language of rhythm.
2. Proverb. A profound but short pithy statement of truth, commonly held and valuable to those who
will heed.
3. Prophecy. Instruction from God to man in regard to some significant fact of the past, the
present, or the future. It makes a man more aware of God’s providential work in the world, His law,
and how a man should react to it. Its element of future prediction needs special care in interpretation. Predictions are divine and they have a definite holy purpose. Watch for the fulfilment of prophecies stated elsewhere in Scripture. Consider each prophecy in the light of its own setting and in harmony with all other Scriptures. Remember that many have both an immediate and a long-range significance. Also, remember that many figures of speech were used by the prophets to express them.
4. Type. A person, object, or incident prefiguring something greater and more exalted to follow. (Romans 5:14; Hebrews 7:17; 1 Corinthians 5:7; 1 Peter 1:19)

 

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