Linguistics & Biblical Exegesis

by Douglas Mangum (Editor), Josh Westbury (Editor)

We rarely think about the way languages work because communicating in our native tongue comes so naturally to us. The Bible was written in ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek-languages no modern reader can claim to have a native understanding of. A better understanding of how language works should help us understand the Bible better as we seek to discern the original intent and meaning of each biblical author. In this book, you will get a basic introduction to the field of linguistics-its history, its key concepts, its major schools of thought, and how its insights can shed light on various problems in biblical Hebrew and Greek. Numerous examples illustrate linguistic concepts, and technical terminology is clearly defined. Learn how the study of language can enhance your Bible study.

Genres: Linguistics, Biblical Studies, Theology

232 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2017

Reviews

[Ryan Lian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful in seeing that the way we often talk about the biblical languages is reductionistic at best, and just plain wrong at worst. So much more to explore here! Great starting point and really simply explained.

[Drew Norwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple and useful caricature map of biblical linguistics. This books gives the uninitiated an overview of the different schools of thought, current debates, and technical jargon. And, more importantly, it showcases the important role that linguistics plays in interpreting the Bible—not just for the specialist but also for the average Bible reader (such as myself) who may not know the first thing about linguistics.

[Matthew Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the discussions in this book for two reasons. Firstly, the distinction between semantics and pragmatics, particularly studying the development of linguistics over the last two hundred years, was insightful and distinguished between understanding the lexeme, socio-linguistic context, and literary style and form. Secondly, the conversation on markedness was new to me and very helpful. Understanding how words are marked has developed how I engage with verbal forms. However, this book is wordy and a challenge at times to read. It's more of a reference guide or textbook for the historical development of these methods than a guide to understanding and practically employing their critical analysis.

[Jason Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very helpful overview of linguistics over time with each chapter including a section addressing the application of the points to biblical exegesis. Very helpful. Not too long. Gave me a better understanding of how to use the study tools I have and how to avoid pitfalls in using them. Well worth reading if you explain Scripture regularly.