Exegesis is the science of interpreting the oldest available Hebrew text of the Bible. Its rules and principles are applicable to other religious writings as well as to ancient Greek, Latin, Sanskrit, and other literature work in general, including political documents. Hermeneutics can be described as an art of understanding and communicating in writing the concepts, messages, or principles of a particular work. Exegesis looks carefully to the historical and linguistic context of the text. Hermeneutics brings the text to the context of the reader or through homilia to that of the audience, so they can understand its wisdom, acquire knowledge and seek to apply it.
Context of the original text is absolutely of extreme importance. One principle to consider is the audience or to whom the text or statement was given. Sometime ago a young man with a very large family (no question this is a great blessing) was reminded, especially due to the health of his beloved wife, that the instruction or command to multiply was given to Adam and Hava. Of course, the principle obviously have implications and applications for the rest of humanity. Nevertheless, in the poem of Genesis/Bereshyt 1-2, the instruction was with a clear purpose in the birth of humanity: to fill up this beautiful planet.
Insisting that the instructions to Joshua or Gideon justify militarism is taking out of context the whole story or legends. If that was literally a historical event, it is always possible that Joshua could misunderstand the instructions. Often when ancient Israel "won" a battle it was understood or misunderstood that the Almighty, Adonay Sevaot, was in their favour and was the one ordering them to fight. If they lost, then it must be because they did something wrong or they were not instructed to go to war.
Today many religious leaders in the "left" and the "right" or all over the political spectrum around the world, claim that God is in their side. Of course, if they are affiliated to any religious group. They bring moral, ethical and even theological issues into their political games. Many times just to gain power. There are a few who are deeply concerned with the future of humanity. These men and women do have convictions and compassion. Needless to say, but I would say it again anyway, these men and women are very few. They understand the proper exegesis of their ancient writings, both religious and political texts, e.g., their Constitution. They have a good set of hermeneutical principles that guide them to bring the core values of ancient times to the realities of today. Their rhetoric techniques are not to gain power, rather to empower the audience.
The world needs religious leaders and politicians who can lead wisely. People who care deeply for the other. Women and men who have convictions and willing to dialogue instead of imposing their views through force or deception. Leaders full of mercy, compassion and love. Yes, love; something that still exists and can transform this world into the Paradise it was meant to be.
The essence of the Hebrew Bible, it was said by Jewish Sages, Christian teachers, and Muslims, is LOVE. Therefore let us understand the text and apply its principles in the light of LOVE.
Note: The booklet "From Ancient Texts to the Internet" on Exegetical Principles, Hermeneutic and Homiletic is available from IHEEB by writing to iheeb.usa@gmail.com
