Scripture and Its Interpretation ch 16: African Biblical Interpretation

African hermeneutics

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Terms in this set (10)

African hermeneutics

An approach to biblical interpretation in African contexts that (a) includes local sources (inculturation, indigenization); (b) emphasizes the oral and community dimensions of the Bible; and (c) involves distantiation, contextualization, and appropriation.

allegorical interpretation

A method of interpreting texts in which words, numbers, characters (e.g., Melchizedek), objects (e.g., the burning bush), and events (e.g., the conquest of Canaan) are assigned a symbolic significance as representing spiritual realities in addition to, or in place of, their literal meaning.

(1) Generally, the utilization of Scripture for contemporary belief and practice; (2) sometimes (e.g., in certain forms of African hermeneutics) understood as the final step in the interpretive process, following distantiation and contextualization, with the goal of deriving meaning and life transformation.

The practice of a nation extending its power and control over other, dependent territory, including its people and resources, for the powerful state's own benefit.

contextualization

The practice of biblical interpretation that entails analysis of the interpreters' contemporary situation to aid in appropriate engagement with the text.

An interpretive step that encourages appreciation of the sacred text in its own historical, social, cultural, and economic contexts.

The act of "leading out" of the text a meaning based on the careful literary, historical, and/or theological analysis and interpretation of a text; in contrast to eisegesis ("reading into"), though it is generally recognized that no interpretation is without bias.

inculturation (or indigenization method)

An approach to biblical interpretation that deliberately interacts with the text's original context and with the contemporary cultural context in which the text is being engaged.

Stories and other significant aspects of religious or cultural heritage passed on orally instead of, or prior to, being written down.

A general interpretive philosophy, theory, approach, or strategy.