God, Language, and Scripture: Reading the Bible in the Light of General Linguistics (Foundations of Contemporary Interpretation, Bk. 4)

This book draws on modern linguistics and applies it to biblical interpretation — bridging linguistics, textual criticism, translation, and hermeneutics.

The primary aim of God, Language and Scripture is to provide guidance in the use of biblical languages. Secondarily, this volume initiates the reader to the wonders and workings of language and points out how language is often misused — especially in regard to the Bible. It includes an account of the birth and growth of modern linguistics, an appreciation of its interdisciplinary character (including ties with literary criticism, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and science), and surveys all levels of language description. It places special emphasis on semantic and stylistic aspects of grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and discourse. In addition, it considers the transmission of the Bible (textual criticism and translation) as a mode of linguistic communication and interpretive process.

“This is a pretty easy read: a brief, semi-popular overview of linguistics in biblical interpretation.” (J. T. King)

“Concise and thought-provoking … accessible even to beginners.” (Mike Robinson)