exegesis
ek-suh-JEE-sis
/ˌɛksɪˈdʒiːsɪs/
Critical explanation or interpretation of a text, especially of scripture.
Implies drawing out the author's original intended meaning through rigorous historical and linguistic analysis.
The story behind the word. Composed of Greek 'ex' (out of) and 'hegeisthai' (to lead). In ancient Athens, an 'exegete' was an official interpreter of sacred law and omens who led meaning out into public understanding.
Word relationships
- interpretation: Interpretation can be personal or subjective, whereas exegesis is a structured analytical investigation.
- hermeneutics: Hermeneutics is the overarching theory of interpretation, while exegesis is the actual act of interpreting a specific text.
- eisegesis: Eisegesis is reading one's personal opinions into a text rather than drawing meaning out.
Commonly confused with
- eisegesis: EX-egesis leads meaning OUT of the text; EIS-egesis forces meaning INTO the text.
Word family
- exegetical (adjective): Relating to critical interpretation or exegesis.
- exegete (noun): A person who performs exegesis.
Collocations
- biblical exegesis
- textual exegesis
- rigorous exegesis
- perform exegesis
Example sentences
- "Careful exegesis of ancient Greek manuscripts reveals nuances overlooked in modern translations." Biblical scholarship
- "The professor performed a brilliant textual exegesis of the poem’s complex imagery." Literary criticism
Memory hook
EX-egesis means EXIT — leading the truth OUT of the text. EX = lead meaning OUT.
When not to use
Do not confuse with eisegesis, which means reading one's own biases into a text.
Fun facts
- The opposite word, 'eisegesis', uses the Greek root 'eis' (into) — forcing your own ideas INTO a text!
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