Synopses & Reviews
Seeking to train readers to "hear all that is being said" within a written text, Peter Leithart advocates a hermeneutics of the letter that is not rigidly literalist and looks to learn to read--not just the Bible, but everything--from Jesus and Paul. Thus Deep Exegesis explores the nature of reading itself--taking clues from Jesus and Paul on the meaning of meaning, the functions of language, and proper modes of interpretation. By looking (and listening) closely, and by including passages from the Bible and other literary sources, Leithart aims to do for the text what Jesus did for the blind man in John 9: to make new by opening eyes. The book is a powerful invitation to enter the depths of a text.
Review
"Leithart is a very fine reader of the biblical text as is evident from his ever-deeper reading and re-reading of Jn 9.... Leithart's project has significant value and potential for his intended audience."
--Seamus O'Connell, Journal for the Study of the New Testament (2011, 33:5)
Review
"... a sustained, often playful, and sometimes brilliantly provocative attempt to undo the dichotomy between the Scripture's formal husk and its material kernel.... Deep Exegesis is a treasure trove of hermeneutical reflection by a master craftsman. It will repay careful reading, by scholars as well as students."
--Wesley Hill, Books and Culture, July/August 2011
Review
"Deep Exegesis is a clear, optimistic, and well-written book, with wide-spanning and interdisciplinary implications."
--The Christian Scholar's Review (Spring 2010)
Review
"To understand the scripture for yourself is a marvelous thing. Deep Exegesis: The Mystery of Reading Scripture is a biblical study that focuses on the nature of reading scripture for oneself. Peter Leithart hopes to inspire readers to take up the study themselves, open their eyes, and realize Jesus's words for themselves, instead of through a filter like many simply accept. Deep Exegesis comes with a powerful encouragement for personal theology, very much recommended."
--Midwest Book Review
Review
"Everyone interested in understanding the Bible (and what Christian isn't!) should read this book...."
--Greg Peters, Assistant Professor of Medieval and Spiritual Theology, Biola University (review from The Scriptorium, 4/6/10)
Review
"Magnificent. Leithart displays his extraordinary ability to make interpretation exciting."
--Matthew Levering, Associate Professor of Theology, Ave Maria University
Review
"Deep Exegesis is a scandalously fun read and a welcome invitation to take a second look at the way we read Scripture."
--The Expository Times (2011, 123:4)
About the Author
Peter J. Leithart is Senior Fellow of Theology and Literature, New St. Andrews College. He is the author of twenty books, including, most recently Writer of Fancy: The Playful Piety of Jane Austen (forthcoming), The Baptized Body; and The Promise of His Appearing. He lives in Moscow, Idaho, where he serves as Pastor of Trinity Reformed Church.