Pericope is a term used in biblical studies to refer to a passage of scripture taken from the Bible. The word is spelled puh-RIH-koh-pee, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced like the word "puh," and it is followed by a short "IH" sound in the second syllable. The final syllable is pronounced like the word "kopee." This word is often used to refer to a section of the Bible that is read during a church service.
Pericope refers to a term primarily used in the field of biblical studies, specifically in relation to the structure and analysis of the Bible. Derived from the Greek word "perikopḗ," it can be defined as a distinct unit or passage within a larger text, specifically referring to a short narrative or group of verses that forms a cohesive and meaningful whole. Pericopes often focus on a particular event, teaching, or story, encapsulating a coherent message.
These textual units are traditionally utilized in the study of biblical hermeneutics and exegesis, aiding scholars, theologians, and readers alike in their analysis and interpretation of sacred texts. It allows for a concentrated examination of a specific theme, event, or teaching within a broader biblical context, facilitating a more nuanced understanding of the text's meaning.
Pericopes are important building blocks in the organization and division of biblical books, chapters, and verses. They serve as pivotal points of reference and aid in categorizing stories, teachings, or prophetic messages within the overarching narrative of the Bible. With their concise and self-contained nature, pericopes are valuable for referencing specific passages and locating particular teachings or events within the broader scriptural framework.
Overall, pericope is a term employed in biblical studies to describe a discrete section of a sacred text, often focusing on a particular narrative or teaching, and playing a vital role in the analysis, division, and organization of biblical literature.
The word "Pericope" comes from the Greek word "perikopē" (περικοπή). It is derived from the verb "perikoptō" (περικόπτω), which means "to cut around" or "to cut out". In ancient Greek, "perikopē" referred to a passage that is specifically selected or excerpted from a larger text. The word later entered the realm of biblical studies, where it is commonly used to describe a selection or section of scripture that is read or studied as a unit, often in a religious or liturgical context.