BIBLICAL CRITICISM Meaning and
Definition
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Biblical criticism refers to the scholarly study and examination of the Bible, primarily focusing on its origins, authorship, historical context, literary features, and interpretation. It encompasses various analytical and interpretive methods used to evaluate and understand biblical texts, seeking to uncover their meanings and historical significance.
Biblical criticism involves critical analysis of the Bible's content, including books, passages, and verses, through the application of scientific and scholarly tools. This field of study aims to differentiate between the various sources, genres, and linguistic styles within biblical texts. It seeks to discern the historical and cultural contexts in which the texts were written and understand the motivations and intentions behind their composition.
The two main branches of biblical criticism are the higher criticism and the lower criticism. Higher criticism, also known as historical criticism, investigates questions of authorship, dating, and textual integrity. It examines the socio-cultural context, historical circumstances, and literary development of biblical texts. Lower criticism, on the other hand, focuses on the textual accuracy and preservation of biblical manuscripts, comparing different versions and variants to determine the most original and reliable rendering.
Biblical criticism often draws on interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating insights from archaeology, anthropology, linguistics, and literary analysis. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Bible, shedding light on its historical and literary dimensions, as well as its theological and religious significance. By critically examining the biblical texts, biblical criticism contributes to the ongoing scholarly dialogue surrounding the Bible's interpretation and relevance in contemporary contexts.
Etymology of BIBLICAL CRITICISM
The word "biblical" originates from the Greek word "Biblia" (βιβλία), meaning "books". It represents the sacred texts of Christianity, the Bible.
The word "criticism" comes from the Latin word "criticus", which refers to the act of judging, analyzing, or evaluating something. The Latin "criticus" is derived from the Greek word "kritikos" (κριτικός), which means "able to discern or judge".
When combined, "biblical criticism" refers to the methodical examination and analysis of the Bible to understand its historical origins, literary compositions, textual variations, and interpretive meanings. It involves the critical evaluation of biblical texts to gain insight into their authorship, context, cultural influences, and theological implications by applying various analytical tools and scholarly methodologies.
