Linguistics and Biblical Interpretation by Peter Cotterell and Max Turner
Exploring the Language of Scripture | Published by InterVarsity Press

Overview

Linguistics and Biblical Interpretation by Peter Cotterell and Max Turner offers a thorough introduction to applying linguistic principles to biblical interpretation. Addressing key questions such as how texts acquire meaning and how meaning is communicated to the reader, this work introduces students to the grammar of words, lexical semantics, and the nuances of analyzing word senses, sentences, and sentence clusters. By integrating linguistics with biblical exegesis, Cotterell and Turner reveal how understanding language at a deeper level can prevent interpretative errors and lead to richer insights into scripture.

Product Details

• Publisher: InterVarsity Press
• Print Length: 348 pages
• Language: English
• Dimensions: 6 x 0.78 x 9 inches
• Publication Date: January 27, 1989
• ISBN-10: 0830817514
• ISBN-13: 978-0830817511
• UPC: 0830817514

Key Features

• Introduction to Linguistics in Theology: Accessible for both beginners and advanced students, this book introduces linguistic analysis techniques essential for sound biblical interpretation.
• Discourse Analysis and Lexical Semantics: With an emphasis on understanding word meanings and sentence structures, the book explores how language communicates intention, meaning, and context.
• Insights from Biblical Texts: Cotterell and Turner use extensive examples from the Bible to illustrate how linguistics can illuminate scriptural meaning.
• Endorsement from Biblical Scholars: I. Howard Marshall of the University of Aberdeen recommends this book as essential reading for New Testament students, noting its blend of linguistic expertise and biblical exegesis.

Reflection

This book meets a growing need for accessible resources on linguistics in theology, making it invaluable for seminary students, theologians, and readers dedicated to deepening their understanding of scripture. Cotterell and Turner’s expertise, paired with their practical application of linguistic methods, equips readers to approach biblical texts with a refined analytical perspective.

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