The Interpretation of Scripture: In Defense of the Historical-Critical Method [Paperback]

Joseph A. Fitzmyer (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 2008

The book seeks to establish the properly oriented use of the historical-critical method as the mode of ascertaining the sense of the written Word of God.

Pastors, preachers, students in biblical disciplines, and scholars will appreciate the discussion of the role of the Bible in Catholic life since Vatican Council II, the discussion that the Biblical Commission devoted to the historical truth of the Gospels, the relation of the historical-critical method of interpreting Scripture to the life of the Church, and a serious discussion of the "senses" of Scripture. The book ends with a tribute to Raymond E. Brown, SS, as a renowned representative of biblical interpretation.

Unique aspects of this collection of essays:
- Emphasis on the historical-critical method that is often impugned today
- Recalling of a Scripture controversy in Rome because of this methodology
- Importance of proper biblical interpretation in life of the Church

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Joseph A. Fitzmyer, SJ, is professor emeritus of biblical studies at the Catholic University of America.

Product Details

• Paperback: 153 pages
• Publisher: Paulist Press (May 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0809145049
• ISBN-13: 978-0809145041
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 2.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #939,385 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

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7 of 45 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars disappointed, March 12, 2009

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H. A. Carlton "HAC" (Austell, Georgia United States) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: The Interpretation of Scripture: In Defense of the Historical-Critical Method (Paperback)

I have a high respect for Fitzmyer's scholarship as shown in his articles in the Jerome Commentary, however he should have been more honest in the title of his book. After reading it I find it more in defense of Catholic tradition than the historical critical method of interpretation. He obviously is still beholden to those who appointed him. Too risky to go outside what they deem orthodox, I guess.