Interpretive principle

When approaching Biblical texts there are many established ways of expounding, explaining and studying them. Historical critical, social, political and literary techniques are employed in modern studies when examing the texts for modern readers. The Rabbi's have given us layers of interpretive principles as well. Knowing how the original authors and readers comprehened texts are large parts of knowing how to approach them today. We usually build from the first original point.

We would like to introduce a principle that approaches the subject from the opposite direction. Call it a way of biasing the reading in light of historic events in modern times. An example is found in the large number of late 20th century scholars approach Biblical texts using what they call post-holocaust theology. This lets the modern reader take account of events that are consequent of Christian teachings about Judaism ancient and modern. Doctrines of replacement theology and rejection theology have strongly affected Christian identity and their perceptions of Jews who don't accept the same teachings. Thoughts lead to actions as noted in history and contemporary events.

PHT will form a basic filter we admittedly will implement in these studies presented here. Our intellects must be informed by the realities of world experiences. World anti-semitism is in large part driven by religious viewpoints whether Christian, Muslim and even Jewish. But it is antithetical to the Bible's moral compass of justice, mercy and love.

In Deuteronomy Moses quotes Hashem to love your neighbors, a verse also cited as privotal by Jesus the Jew from Nazareth. Love for G_d's chosen people Israel is a collective way of loving our neighbors. Repentance and apology are in order for historic and modern deeds done in the name of Jesus and his followers. We will search out Biblical readings of Tanach and NT that can greatly aid in setting the records straight and improving our moral consistency. Therefore in a very direct sense we will allow these principles to govern our reading of the texts. From that we will also reach into the recesses of our minds and hearts to examine our own identities as worshippers of the one G_d of Israel.

Firm Footstep #1

This blog will aim to present Biblically rooted analysis and commentary on religious topics. This will often not support traditional Christian theological positions. Evidence will draw from Christian thought as well as Jewish. The essays are meant to be entirely non-conversionist toward Jewish people.

The author finds himself standing between the worlds of Christianity and Judaism. He is Christian (not Messianic Jewish) by upbringing and practice for over 40 years. Recent studies in scripture, history and religious writings from both traditions have suggested many avenues of questioning the exclusive spiritual claims of Christians over Jews. The questions will cross the line of Christian uniqueness and challenge long supposed advantages.

The amount of materials available are vast, we will select topics of interest to us personally. Motive for these essays are found in the world changing events of the 20th century concerning the Jewish people and Israel in particular as the one chosen people on earth.