Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation, 2nd ed.

by Henry Virkler; Karelynne Gerber Ayayo

Publisher:

Baker

, 2007

Overview

This accessible text, which combines hermeneutical theory with practical steps for exegesis, has been translated into eight languages and has been used in a variety of settings to teach students how to study the Bible responsibly. The authors outline a five-step hermeneutical procedure that includes:

• Historical-cultural and contextual analysis
• Lexical-syntactical analysis
• Theological analysis
• Genre identification and analysis
• Application

The second edition adds co-author Karelynne Gerber Ayayo and includes updated material covering developments in hermeneutics over the past twenty years.

Contents

Top Highlights

“The third view of inspiration, the one traditionally held by historic Christianity, is that God worked through the personalities of the biblical writers in such a way that, without suspending their personal styles of expression or freedom, what they produced was literally ‘God-breathed’ (2 Tim. 3:16; Greek: theopneustos).” (Page 21)

“Hermeneutics is essentially a codification of the processes we normally use at an unconscious level to understand the meaning of a communication.” (Page 19)

“First, what is the general historical situation facing the author and his audience?” (Pages 82–83)

“Third, what was the spiritual disposition of the audience?” (Page 84)

“Second, knowledge of what customs will clarify the meaning of given actions?” (Page 83)

Praise for the Print Edition

[A] helpful and accessible volume…Virkler deals with most of the key issues in hermeneutics…He does so in language that is understandable to non-specialists…His explication of the various hermeneutical approaches is evenhanded and readable. This would be an excellent text to teach hermeneutics in a church setting. Its accessibility, fair-mindedness, and quality make it a work with wide appeal. Recommended as an introduction to biblical study for any non-specialist.

—Steve W. Lemke, Southwestern Journal of Theology

A useful introduction to the field from a psychologist who teaches at the intersection of psychology and theology…[The] emphasis on practical application is a noteworthy goal which the author consistently addresses throughout the book…Several features of the book commend themselves. In 250 pages the author addresses the major topics which a textbook in a hermeneutics course must cover…His sensitivity to the fundamental hermeneutical problems of continuity-discontinuity…and cultural dynamics…is especially noteworthy. The chosen format is well suited to classroom use. It offers explicit goals stated at the head of each chapter, clear definitions, 'brain teasers,' summaries, practical 'exercises' (questions for discussion), and resource lists.

—Timothy S. Laniak, Bulletin for Biblical Research

This edition includes developments in hermeneutics over the past two decades. Written primarily as a textbook on biblical interpretation, it will be of value to church leaders who have never had any serious study in this area or who are looking for a refresher.

—PreachingNow

Product Details

• Title: Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation
• Authors: Henry A. Virkler and Karelynne Gerber Ayayo
• Edition: 2nd
• Publisher: Baker
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 256

About the Authors

Henry A. Virkler (Ph.D., Georgia State University) is professor of psychology at Palm Beach Atlantic University. He has written five books, including A Christian's Guide to Critical Thinking.

Karelynne Gerber Ayayo (Th.D., Boston University) is assistant professor of New Testament at Palm Beach Atlantic University.