(Part 1)

JBTM Paul D. Wegner
96
literal meaning (e.g., “eat my dust” comes from the concrete experience that
dust literally flies up from the feet of the lead runner in a race and gets into
the eyes and mouth of those behind). Some images appear in more than one
biblical passage, which can be helpful for their interpretation. A general rule
of thumb is to try to render a literal translation unless that does not make
sense and then try to determine why that specific image is used. For example,
Nebuchadnezzar’s dream about an unusual statue in Daniel 2 suggests that it
represents more than a literal statue: the head of gold represents a strong and
glorious kingdom, the silver breast and arms represent a less powerful and
glorious, second kingdom, and so on.
3. Prepare a Translation of the Text
An accurate translation of the Hebrew text is a crucial starting point for your
exegesis and sermon. This step should include comparing English translations
and various ancient versions (Septuagint, Latin Vulgate, Syriac Peshitta). Use a
good English interlinear or translation of these if necessary. By comparing these
translations and versions important nuances and textual critical issues may arise.
Many English translations provide notes on the most important variant readings and
the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia includes information essential to help determine the
most plausible original reading of the text. Good exegetical commentaries also often
mention textual critical issues (e.g., Word Biblical Commentaries and Hermeneia
Commentaries).
4. Analyze the Grammar
Grammatical Features
Looking closely at grammar is vital to determining the meaning of a passage. Look
for verb forms, words indicating some type of temporal relationship, connecting
words, words indicating reasons (kî, “because”), prepositions, etc. Also look for
grammatical features, such as ellipsis, 11 anacoluthon, 12 asyndeton, 13 parataxis, 14 etc.
Emphatic word order is another way the prophets highlighted important concepts in
their messages.
11
Ellipsis – intentionally leaving out words for impact.
12
Anacoluthon – a disrupted sentence or construction that lacks grammatical sequence.
13
Asyndeton – the absence of a conjunction between words or parts of a sentence.
14
Parataxis – joining short sentences by coordinating conjunctions.