Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation - Paperback

by Henry A. Virkler (Author), Karelynne Gerber Ayayo (Author)

This textbook provides students and general readers with clear, accessible guidance for interpreting the Bible. With nearly 120,000 copies sold, it has become a trusted resource for serious students of the Bible. The authors' successful approach shows how proper theory leads to sound practice.

This book gives readers not only an understanding of the principles of proper biblical interpretation but also the ability to apply those principles in sermon preparation, personal Bible study, or writing. The authors outline a seven-step hermeneutical process that includes (1) historical-cultural analysis, (2) written contextual analysis, (3) lexical-syntactical analysis, (4) literary analysis, (5) theological analysis, (6) comparison with other interpreters, and (7) application.

The third edition has been updated throughout to account for new developments in the field and to incorporate feedback from professors and students. Exercises have also been updated and streamlined. Resources for instructors are available through Textbook eSources.

Back Jacket

In this popular classroom text, Henry Virkler and Karelynne Gerber Ayayo combine hermeneutical theory with practical steps for exegesis. This book gives readers not only an understanding of the principles of proper biblical interpretation but also the ability to apply those principles in sermon preparation, personal Bible study, or writing. The authors outline a seven-step hermeneutical process that includes (1) historical-cultural analysis, (2) written contextual analysis, (3) lexical-syntactical analysis, (4) literary analysis, (5) theological analysis, (6) comparison with other interpreters, and (7) application.

The third edition has been updated throughout to account for new developments in the field and to incorporate feedback from professors and students. Exercises have also been updated and streamlined.

Praise for Previous Editions

"A useful introduction to the field. . . . The chosen format is well suited to classroom use."
--Timothy S. Laniak, Bulletin for Biblical Research

"[An] attractively presented textbook. . . . The book's structure and pedagogical goals are clear."
--D. G. Firth, Journal for the Study of the Old Testament

"[A] helpful and accessible volume. . . . Recommended as an introduction to biblical study for any nonspecialist."
--Steve W. Lemke, Southwestern Journal of Theology

"The unique contribution of Virkler and Ayayo is that they make that which is exceedingly complicated more accessible to the beginning student of hermeneutics. For this they should be commended. . . . Furthermore, Virkler and Ayayo include helpful learning aids that further clarify the content of each chapter."
--Michael L. Bryant, Criswell Theological Review

Author Biography

Henry A. Virkler (PhD, Georgia State University), now retired, taught as a counselor educator for forty-two years at Richmont Graduate University, Liberty University, and Palm Beach Atlantic University. He lives in Riviera Beach, Florida.

Karelynne Gerber Ayayo (ThD, Boston University) is professor of biblical and theological studies and associate dean at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. She contributed numerous articles to The Baker Illustrated Study Bible and The Baker Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words.