Bible Interpretation, Student Workbook, SW05

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B I B L E I N T E R P R E T A T I O N

This lesson focuses upon the role and uses of genre in biblical interpretation. The concepts below summarize the major insights covered in this segment on the significance of genres in special hermeneutics. The term “genre” (pronounced JOHN-ruh) refers to that particular kind of literary form which communicates truth and must be interpreted according to the rules of that form. The interpretation of the Bible according to genres must begin with a careful understanding of the basic assumptions of genre study, which affirms the fact that the Bible itself is a book of literature, one which is ordered and governed by attention to literary rules and principles like other works of literature, and that God employed genres and human literary strategies to communicate his Word to us. There are many significant forms and types of literature in the Scriptures. These include the use of narrative (both historical and imaginative), the occurrence of the Law (legal writings), epistles (letters), prophecy (including apocalyptic literature), the wisdom literature of Scripture (including proverbs, monologues, riddles, fables, parables, allegories, etc.), and the presence of poetic works. Genres occur because of the particular literary purpose of the authors to address particular needs and issues to their respective audiences, as well as to deepen our understanding of our fundamental human experience. Genre study also allows us to comprehend the truth by seeing it imaged forth in its most concrete from, as well as to display the artistry of the biblical authors as led by the Spirit, and to reveal the richness of the mystery of God and his work in the world. Careful attention to the genres and the rules to interpret them can provide us with major benefits in our biblical interpretation; genre study can empower us to discover the author’s original intention, edify us as we identify the meaning of Scripture for our lives, enrich and entertain us in the beauty of the Scriptures, and enlighten us in the knowledge of the purpose and will of God.

Summary of Key Concepts

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Special hermeneutics refers to those specific rules and procedures that enable us to interpret the literary forms of the Bible.