History of Interpretation

Call For Papers: The History of Interpretation section is convening three sessions. (1) The Role of Philosophy in Greek and Byzantine Exegesis (joint, open session with Biblical Exegesis in Eastern Orthodox Perspectives) In this session, we examine the relation between “philosophy,” an enterprise construed in various ways by Christian theologians, and the exegetical works of Greek and Byzantine interpreters. Though scholars often recognize the significance of philosophical traditions both for allegorical interpretation and for commentaries, they have paid less attention to the role of moral philosophy, for instance, in patristic moral exhortation. We, therefore, welcome proposals that examine the role of philosophical traditions in Eastern patristic exegesis. (2) The History of Interpretation as Source and/or Norm for Contemporary Theology." This session asks how the history of biblical interpretation might renew the practice of contemporary theology in particular. It will focus on the question whether historical exegesis may constitute a source and/or a norm for that practice. First, is the history of exegesis a source for theology, alongside creeds, conciliar documents, liturgy and philosophical reflections? Can it be seen as an underutilized source over against the more readily doctrinal, philosophical and polemical documents theologians have preferred? Second, a stronger claim may be made that premodern modes of exegesis or exegetical claims are normative in some way for contemporary theology. For instance, is any one period in the history of exegesis normative for the ongoing practice of theology? Paper proposals are especially encouraged to deal with substantive content and particular doctrines rather than remaining at the methodological level. (3) INVITED SESSION: Jewish and Christian Biblical Interpretation in the Enlightenment. (4)) The Role of Philosophy in Greek and Byzantine Exegesis (2nd session NOT JOINT with Biblical Exegesis in Eastern Orthodox Perspectives) In th

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