Reading the Bible with Giants: How 2000 Years of Biblical Interpretation Can Shed New Light on Old Texts

by David Paul Parris

The three levels of reading can also be compared to viewing a work of art. Pleasure reading is similar to gazing at a picture: we appreciate its beauty and allow it to work its magic on us. At the second level of reading we consider the overall composition of the work. What color scheme did the artist employ? Is there a story or message embedded in this work of art? At some point our interest may be caught by a particular detail in the picture. What type of canvas, brushstroke, or technique did the artist use? How did the artist convey the impression of depth or lighting? Is there a story behind this work? Questions of this nature indicate that we have moved from asking questions about the big picture—the second level of reading—to questions that examine the finer details in the work—the third level of reading.