Marcus Borg asserts on page 17 of Reading the Bible Again for the First Time that "post modernity" leads us to reading scripture through the lenses of cultural conditioning, turning to experience, and metaphors that communicate truth.
Through what cultural lenses do we read scripture?
What experiences do we apply in reading and interpreting scripture?
What metaphors do we use to communicate truth?
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2 comments:
I still do not have the book, but i think that we read the Bible through the culture that we grew up and the culture we currently live in. I think how we interpret things is related to how we live: those brought up in a very conservative home may read and interpret very litterally, those brought up with little tolerance for differences will read and interpret it as they "see through their lenses".
Whether I'm aware of it or not, my reading of scripture is often prejudicial from the outset since I am prone to filter what I read through multiple lenses, i.e.: where and when I was born, the social, economic and political climate in which I live, my religious background (or lack thereof), academic training, life experiences, etc.
For instance, if I didn't have a close, loving relationship with my father, it will be difficult for me to correctly grasp the unconditionl love with which my "heavenly Father" loves me. Moreover, if I read scripture in ignorance (without taking time to identify who is speaking, to whom they are speaking, why they are speaking, and in what circumstance or climate they are speaking), my understanding will be faulty at best. Perhaps the worst possible lens to employ in scripture reading is that of the "Gospel According to Me"; that is, starting out with what I have ordained as truth, then snatching bits and pieces (usually out of context) to support that assertion.
If I really want to understand scripture and "hear" God's voice as I read, I need to set aside my preconceptions, prejudices and fears so that I can see clearly.
Am not sure about the "metaphor" question. Do you mean those we use to communicate some truth about God (a mighty fortress, rock of ages)? Or do you want a more general answer such as fables and parables?
Hope this comment isn't to late. By the way, are academic authors paid by the syllable? Just thought I'd ask!
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