Hermeneutics, derived from the Greek word hermēneuō meaning “to interpret” or “to explain,” refers to the science and art of biblical interpretation. Far from being an academic exercise reserved for scholars, proper hermeneutics is essential for every serious Bible student who desires to “rightly handle the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). At its core, biblical hermeneutics seeks to discover the intended meaning of the inspired human authors under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, rather than impose modern or personal views upon the text. A faithful approach requires reverence for Scripture’s authority, careful attention to grammar and context, and sensitivity to the historical and cultural setting of the text. This article explores the foundational principles, interpretive tools, and necessary safeguards for sound biblical hermeneutics.
The Goal of Biblical Hermeneutics
The aim of biblical interpretation is to uncover the authorial intent—what the original author, under divine inspiration, meant to communicate to the original audience. This pursuit acknowledges that Scripture was written in time and space, using the languages, idioms, and worldviews of ancient people. However, while the cultural trappings may vary, the truth conveyed is timeless. Paul affirms this principle when he writes, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). The objective, then, is to draw out (exegesis) what is already in the text—not read into it (eisegesis) what we wish it said.
This goal rules out allegorical or mystical readings that detach words from their plain sense. Instead, it demands grammatical-historical interpretation—evaluating the text according to grammar, vocabulary, context, and historical background. It also acknowledges that meaning is singular and fixed, not fluid or open to infinite subjective interpretations. The same God who does not lie (Titus 1:2) has spoken clearly and consistently in His Word.
The Principle of Literal Interpretation
Literal interpretation does not mean a wooden or unimaginative reading, but rather taking the words of Scripture in their normal usage unless context demands a figurative sense. Language, by nature, contains metaphor, idiom, and imagery—yet these are not arbitrary but governed by clear conventions. For instance, when Jesus says, “I am the door” (John 10:9), He is not claiming to be wood and hinges, but using a metaphor to reveal His function as the sole entrance into salvation. The literal principle acknowledges figures of speech but always seeks the meaning intended by the author. This preserves the integrity of Scripture and avoids speculative spiritualizing that has marred church history.
This approach is affirmed by Jesus Himself. When questioned about Scripture, He responded, “Have you not read…?” (Matthew 12:3, 5; 19:4). His expectation was that the text could be understood as written. The same applies to prophecy and apocalyptic sections: symbols may appear, but their meanings are rooted in historical context and often explained within the text (e.g., Revelation 1:20). The literal principle upholds clarity and coherence, allowing the Bible to interpret itself.
The Grammatical-Historical Method
This method focuses on understanding the text through the lens of its grammar and historical context. It asks:
What do the words mean in their original language?
How are they used in the sentence and paragraph?
What was happening historically at the time of writing?
How would the original audience have understood this message?
For example, understanding Paul’s letters requires familiarity with first-century Greco-Roman society, Jewish law, and early church dynamics. When Paul writes, “A woman should learn in quietness and full submission” (1 Timothy 2:11), this cannot be dismissed as cultural bias nor reinterpreted in light of modern feminism. Instead, one must ask what did it mean then, and how does that meaning apply now?
Grammatical analysis involves studying verb tenses, nouns, conjunctions, and sentence structure. In Ephesians 2:8-9, the phrase “by grace you have been saved through faith” uses a perfect passive verb (“have been saved”), emphasizing a completed action with continuing effects. Understanding such grammar clarifies theological implications.
Historical analysis might involve consulting ancient customs, geography, or archaeological findings. Knowing that Laodicea had poor drinking water explains why Jesus said they were “lukewarm” (Revelation 3:16). Thus, Scripture becomes clearer, not cloudier, when viewed in its original context.
Context Is King
Words do not exist in a vacuum. The meaning of a word or phrase depends on its immediate literary context, the broader section in which it occurs, the book as a whole, and ultimately, the entire canon of Scripture. This hierarchy of context helps prevent misinterpretation and distortion.
For instance, Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through him who strengthens me”—is often used to support personal ambition or success. But the context reveals Paul is speaking about contentment in hardship (Philippians 4:11-12). Likewise, “Judge not, that you be not judged” (Matthew 7:1) is not a blanket prohibition on discernment, but a warning against hypocritical judgment, clarified in the very next verses.
Interpreting a verse apart from its context risks heresy. This is why Satan, in Matthew 4:6, quoted Psalm 91:11-12 out of context to tempt Jesus. The Lord countered with Scripture rightly understood. Context safeguards against such abuse and ensures interpretation is faithful.
Scripture Interprets Scripture
One of the most vital rules of hermeneutics is the analogia Scripturae—the analogy of Scripture. Because all of Scripture is inspired by one divine Author, it cannot contradict itself. Difficult passages must be interpreted in light of clearer ones. This is especially crucial in areas like eschatology, soteriology, and ecclesiology.
For example, when interpreting Revelation, one must consult Old Testament imagery from Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah. When studying salvation, Romans and Galatians illuminate the doctrines of grace more explicitly than typological narratives from the Old Testament. Scripture sheds light on itself, forming a harmonious whole. If an interpretation contradicts other passages, it is incorrect.
This principle helps resolve apparent tensions. James 2:24 says, “a person is justified by works and not by faith alone,” while Romans 3:28 says, “one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” Rather than contradiction, the analogy of Scripture shows James is addressing counterfeit faith, not denying justification by faith. This harmonization comes only through comparing Scripture with Scripture.
The Role of Genre in Interpretation
The Bible contains diverse genres: historical narrative, poetry, prophecy, parable, apocalyptic, epistle, and law. Recognizing genre aids interpretation. For example:
Proverbs are general truths, not absolute promises (e.g., Proverbs 22:6).
Psalms use vivid imagery and emotion, not propositional doctrine.
Parables convey a central point and should not be over-allegorized.
Apocalyptic books (Daniel, Revelation) use symbols explained within or rooted in Old Testament imagery.
Confusing these genres leads to error. Reading Revelation as straightforward narrative, or interpreting poetic language in Psalms as literal doctrine, misrepresents the text. Genre signals the reader on how to approach meaning.
The Danger of Subjective Interpretation
Modern hermeneutics often promotes reader-centered approaches, where the meaning of the text is shaped by the reader’s experience, emotions, or social context. This postmodern view undermines the authority of Scripture, making truth relative. Statements like “this passage means to me…” shift focus from the author’s intent to personal preference.
True interpretation is not a dialogue between equals. It is a submission to what the text says. As Peter wrote, “no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation” (2 Peter 1:20). The meaning is not created—it is discovered. Subjectivism leads to doctrinal chaos, as each reader becomes his own authority. Faithful hermeneutics resists this trend by anchoring meaning in the inspired author’s purpose.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Biblical Understanding
The Holy Spirit’s primary role in communicating God’s will to humanity was accomplished through the direct inspiration of the prophets and apostles. As Jesus promised in John 14:26 and John 16:13, “the Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you,” and “when the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” These statements were spoken to the apostles, not to all future believers. The fulfillment of this promise occurred in the first century, particularly through the apostles and their close associates (Luke 1:1–4; Acts 2:1–4; 2 Peter 1:21). Through them, the inspired Scriptures were completed (2 Timothy 3:16–17), preserving God’s will in a written form for all generations.
Today, the Holy Spirit does not give additional revelation, secret meanings, or personal insights beyond Scripture. The completed canon is sufficient (Jude 3). Nor does the Spirit operate through feelings, impressions, or mystical intuition, which are hallmarks of Charismatic theology and subjectivism. Rather, the Spirit works through the Word He inspired, enabling believers—through diligent study—to come to a correct understanding of God’s will.
Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 2:15 underscores the responsibility each Christian bears: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” The Spirit does not “illuminate” Scripture through non-cognitive experience or emotional prompting, but believers are expected to use the reasoning faculties God has given them to examine the grammar, context, historical background, and literary form of the Bible.
Even when Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 2:12–14 about receiving “the Spirit who is from God,” the context refers to the apostles receiving and proclaiming the revealed wisdom of God—not to all believers receiving private interpretations. Verse 13 affirms, “we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.” This transmission of inspired truth was foundational, not ongoing.
The mature Christian must progress from milk to solid food by applying consistent, disciplined effort (Hebrews 5:12–14). God expects His people to grow in knowledge (2 Peter 3:18), and He has provided all things necessary for life and godliness “through the knowledge of Him who called us” (2 Peter 1:3), not through mystical inner experience.
In summary, the Holy Spirit today empowers you through the inspired, inerrant Scripture as the enduring voice of God. He does not override the need for diligent study or give spontaneous insight apart from the text. He works through the Word, not beyond or above it, leading honest and humble students to truth when they rightly interpret what has already been revealed (Acts 17:11; Ephesians 3:3–5).
Application Must Follow Interpretation
Interpretation seeks meaning; application follows as obedience to that meaning. James warns, “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). A proper interpretation that does not lead to action is incomplete. Application must be faithful to the text—one cannot make a passage say what it never meant.
For instance, the command “You shall not muzzle an ox” (Deuteronomy 25:4) is applied by Paul to the principle of paying ministers (1 Timothy 5:18). This is not a spiritualizing but a legitimate extension based on the underlying principle. Sound hermeneutics bridges the ancient world and today by honoring the text’s intent and drawing out its implications for life, worship, and doctrine.
Conclusion: Rightly Handling the Word of Truth
Hermeneutics is not a peripheral concern—it is central to knowing God and obeying His will. Jehovah has spoken clearly through His Word, and He expects it to be handled accurately, reverently, and responsibly. The grammatical-historical method, governed by context, genre, and cross-referencing, ensures fidelity to His voice. Rejecting allegory, mysticism, or cultural distortion, true hermeneutics anchors interpretation in authorial intent. Application, then, flows from a clear understanding of what He has revealed.
As Paul charged Timothy, so all believers are called to “present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Through sound hermeneutics, the church preserves the faith once delivered, avoids error, and proclaims the gospel with clarity and power.
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
SCROLL THROUGH THE DIFFERENT CATEGORIES BELOW
BIBLE TRANSLATION AND TEXTUAL CRITICISM
BIBLICAL STUDIES / BIBLE BACKGROUND / HISTORY OF THE BIBLE/ INTERPRETATION
