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Synopsis and Reflection 

Culture is a major influence in the way we interpret the scriptures. Most literature that talks about biblical interpretation provides methodologies based on culture. Culture is the main issue that causes biblical misinterpretations. However, there are three ways that can help a bible reader avoid misinterpretation caused by culture. One of the ways is embracing complexity. Tricky verses in the Bible cannot be explained from a single cultural point of view. There are many different things that go unnoticed in bible passages and this affects interpretation (Richards & Brandon, 2012). It is therefore important to understand and accept complexity in the Bible and be aware of overcorrection. There is a tendency to abandon an interpretation of a passage in the scriptures once it is termed as cultural. It is also important to embrace errors in interpretation. 

Personal Reflections and Questions 

The chapter’s author presents crucial considerations and insights that helpful in being cultural sensitive when interpreting the scriptures. Previously, it never occurred to me that my cultural values and assumptions influence the way I interpret the Bible. However, reading the book has really opened my eyes and enlightened me on how I can avoid misinterpreting scriptures. I agree with the author that in most cases people miss points in the bible because of cultural blinders. The author’s point of view in this chapter is valid and the three elements discussed in the chapter can help in avoiding misinterpretation. However, how does one identify that he/she has misinterpreted a passage in the scriptures so that the same mistake is not repeated again? Is there a way or method to evaluate scripture interpretation? We should accept that errors happen and learn from them (Richards & Brandon, 2012). By being conscious of the three elements we avoid cultural blinders hence misinterpretation. 

Reference 

Richards, E. Randolph, and Brandon J. O’Brien (2012).  Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: removing cultural blinders to better understand the bible . Place of publication not identified: Downer Groves, IL: Intervarsity Press