Exegesis is the fundament first step of exposition. The word
exegesis is from the French meaning to explain or interpret. Webster gives the
definition as to explaining or interpreting the text. That is really a simple
definition. More precisely exegesis is defining words of the Biblical text in
relation to rules of grammar in light, scope and tone of the original language
of the text. After getting a feel for the text by reading it to grasp the
context and tone of the passage, exegesis consist of certain steps:
The first step is word centered. It begins by understanding
the original meaning of all the words contained in the passage. This is more
than defining words; since words can have many meanings and various nuances,
depending both on context and historical usage. It entails noting the primitive
root and its meaning and development of usage to determine in which sense it is
used in the context of the text.
The second step is grammar centered. Having knowledge of the
meaning of the words, one must relate them to the laws of grammar. This will
clarify how the word is used and give a clear nuance of its meaning. This means
such things as tense and voice of the word. These laws of grammar give certain
nuances that may not be seen in the English translation. For example suppose we
read a translated passage that says “Let us do this.” Is this a one time act,
or a continual act? If the Greek is in the present sense, it would have the
sense of continual action. Thus it would have the idea of “Let us continually
do this.” The nuance is not seen in the English translation, although the
translation may be a correct word for word translation. When doing exegesis the
laws of grammar are essential to grasp the intent of the writer.
The third step is historical background. Historical
background is not always going to translate or effect translation of the
passage. It may give understanding behind a translation and may supply
additional information to assure proper translation of a passage. Word meaning and grammar may take us only to
a technical meaning. History and usage of the word takes us beyond the
technical into the actual or historical.
Take for instance, the word paidagogos (Gal 3:24-25). The technical meaning
and grammar simply gives us the meaning of child leader or conductor. It is not until we see the historical usage of
the word that gives us a better understanding. A paidagogos was usually a slave
to whom boys in a family were committed and whose duty was to exercise watch
care over the child in regard to their conduct and safety. They were not
teachers precisely, but caregivers who attended to them in their daily lives
and conveyed moral and manners to the child.[1] Although
history does not give us a precise translation of the word it does give us
understanding to how to convey the word into English. Thus, the idea of the
word is given, not the precise meaning in English. Thus, it is translated tutor
or custodian.
Exegesis must involve these three steps which are essential.
Anything less is not exegesis.
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