Exegesis

Exegesis is from the Greek exegeisthai (to lead out, to interpret, to explain), from ex (out) and hegeisthai (to lead)[1]. The literal sense is leading out the meaning. In religious studies the term names the careful interpretation of texts, especially scripture, with attention to language, context, history, and tradition[2].

exegesis differs from casual reading because it brings method, context, and interpretive discipline to the text.

Exegesis is a developed discipline in every textual religious tradition. Biblical exegesis in Christianity includes attention to the original languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek), the historical context of composition, the literary genre of specific texts, and the interpretive tradition within which the text has been read. Schools of exegesis vary: historical-critical methods examine the text as historical document, literary methods attend to narrative and rhetoric, theological methods read the text within its canonical and confessional context.

Rabbinic exegesis works through extensive interpretive traditions, with the classic four senses of peshat (plain meaning), remez (allegorical hint), derash (homiletical interpretation), and sod (mystical meaning) providing one common structure. Midrashic literature is the recorded fruit of centuries of rabbinic exegesis.

Islamic exegesis of the Quran (tafsir) draws on the Quran itself, on hadith (prophetic tradition), on the historical context of revelation (asbab al-nuzul), on Arabic linguistics, and on broader theological reasoning. Major tafsir works include those of al-Tabari, al-Razi, al-Qurtubi, Ibn Kathir, and many others. Different schools (Sunni, Shia, Sufi) develop distinctive exegetical traditions.

Hindu exegesis works through commentary traditions (bhashya) on the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Brahma Sutras, and other foundational texts. Different philosophical schools (Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, Dvaita) produce different commentaries on the same texts, with the interpretations themselves forming a major part of each school's contribution.

Buddhist exegesis includes the commentary traditions on the Pali Canon (especially through Buddhaghosa's 5th century work), on Mahayana sutras (through figures including Nagarjuna and Asanga), and on the recorded sayings of major teachers.

In each tradition, exegesis is not pure neutral analysis. The interpretive community, the theological framework, and the questions brought to the text all shape what exegesis produces[2].

Exegesis studies cuts across biblical scholarship, religious studies, hermeneutics, and the comparative study of interpretive traditions. James Kugel's writing on Jewish exegesis[2], scholars across many traditions, and comparative interpretive studies have all built the field.

• How to Read the Bibleby James L. Kugel
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• The Garments of Torahby Michael Fishbane
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