How to Read the Bible: Context Part 2

Understanding Context in Scripture

One of the most important tools for unlocking the richness of Scripture is understanding the context in which it was written. The Bible wasn’t penned in a vacuum, and it certainly wasn’t written in the same cultural setting we find ourselves in today. In fact, biblical texts come from what anthropologists call a high context culture, which differs significantly from the low context cultures that most of us in the West live in today. These terms are crucial for understanding how the ancient biblical writers conveyed meaning, and how we, as modern readers, often miss the depth of what’s being communicated.

What Are High Context and Low Context Cultures?

Let’s break these terms down. In a low context culture, like ours in the West, meaning is conveyed explicitly. If someone wants to get a message across, they write everything out in detail, explaining their point clearly, often using extra explanations, footnotes, and references to make sure nothing is left misunderstood. Think of legal documents, textbooks, or instruction manuals, they tend to spell out every little detail.

On the other hand, a high context culture is more implicit. Much of the meaning is shared through cultural norms, idioms, gestures, and unspoken understandings that the reader or listener is assumed to know. The writer leaves much unsaid because their audience can fill in the blanks based on their shared cultural background. This means that a lot less needs to be written down, as the message is often conveyed through subtle references or understood cultural cues. High context cultures are often collectivist and oral-based, meaning communication happens in close-knit communities where people share a common history and way of thinking.

How This Impacts Reading the Bible

When we approach the Bible, we need to keep in mind that it was written in a high context society. This presents a challenge for those of us raised in a low context culture. We’re used to everything being spelled out for us, but in Scripture, much of the meaning is packed into brief phrases or idioms that made sense to the original audience but may seem foreign to us. Without recognizing the cultural backdrop, we can easily misinterpret what the Bible is saying.

For instance, take the phrase “I take the Bible literally.” Often, when people say this, they are applying a low context mindset to a high context text, assuming the Bible spells out everything in the same explicit way modern books do. But Scripture is filled with rich, layered meaning that comes alive when we dive into the cultural and historical setting in which it was written.

A perfect example of this is found in Revelation, where Jesus criticizes the church in Laodicea for being “lukewarm.” Modern readers, especially those unfamiliar with the local geography, often interpret this to mean that being “lukewarm” is worse than being “cold,” as if Jesus were saying it’s better to be against him than to be half-hearted. But when we understand the cultural context, the message becomes clearer. Laodicea was located between two cities: one famous for its hot springs, another for its cool, refreshing water. By the time Laodicea’s water arrived (via Roman aqueduct), it was lukewarm and unpleasant. It was neither hot and therapeutic or cool and refreshing effectively losing its value to the recipients. Jesus’ message wasn’t about preferring evil over indifference; it was about spiritual effectiveness. Lukewarm water, like lukewarm faith, is ineffective and useless.

Paul and Puns: The Cultural Wordplay in Colossians

Another example of cultural context comes from Paul’s writing in Colossians 2. Here, Paul uses a rare Greek word that suggests a pun. He warns the Colossians not to be “synagogued” back into the old Jewish customs. This wordplay is lost in most English translations, but it would have been clear to Paul’s audience. Paul wasn’t just giving a doctrinal warning; he was making a witty, culturally nuanced point that added a deeper layer of meaning to his message.

Old Testament Hyperbole: The Conquest of Canaan

In the Old Testament, understanding the high context culture is essential for interpreting passages that, on the surface, seem troubling. For example, the conquest accounts in Joshua are often accused of endorsing genocide. However, scholars who understand the cultural context of ancient Near Eastern writing styles argue that these accounts use hyperbolic language, much like how we might say a sports team “annihilated” their opponent. The ancient writers weren’t giving a literal account of mass extermination, but rather using exaggerated language to describe military victories. Knowing this cultural backdrop helps us read the conquest narratives in a way that aligns with God’s character, without jumping to harsh conclusions.

Leviticus and Polygamy: A Case of Idioms

Even in the case of laws like those in Leviticus 18:18, cultural context plays a key role. Many assume this passage condones polygamy, but a deeper dive into the idioms of the original Hebrew suggests otherwise. The phrase “a woman to her sister” is actually an idiomatic expression that means “another wife,” not a literal sibling. This understanding shows that the verse may actually be prohibiting polygamy, rather than condoning it. Without grasping the idioms of the time, we risk misunderstanding what the Bible teaches.

Bridging the Context Gap

So, does this mean we need to be biblical scholars or historians to understand the Bible? Not at all. While modern scholarship helps us bridge the cultural gap, the core doctrines of Christianity (sin, atonement, and resurrection) are still accessible to everyone. But, by studying the cultural context, we can deepen our understanding and appreciation of Scripture.

When you read the Bible, remember that you’re stepping into a world where much of the message was left between the lines, meant to be filled in by a shared understanding of the culture. By learning about this context, we open the door to a richer, more accurate reading of God’s Word.

As you journey through Scripture, consider how context, both the historical and cultural, is key to unlocking its full meaning. It’s not just about what’s written, but about how the original audience would have understood it. That’s where the beauty of God’s Word truly shines, as it transcends time and culture, yet invites us to dive deeper into the world in which it was revealed.

Reflection: How might this understanding of high and low context cultures change the way you approach reading the Bible? What stories or teachings have you misunderstood because you didn’t grasp the cultural background? Digging into these questions may just be the key to deepening your faith and uncovering the deeper truths of Scripture.

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Author’s Note:

If you’ve followed me this far, I commend your tenacity. I don’t wish to overwhelm you with the detailed aspects of scholarship, but engaging with Scripture in a deeper, more fulfilling way requires thoughtful effort. While many Bible readers shy away from academic study, that very hesitation often makes the Bible seem difficult and confusing. This leads to the many interpretations and misunderstandings we see today.

The Bible is not subjective or open to endless interpretations. It conveys a clear message, and the only way to truly grasp that message is to put in the work. My goal is to make that work easier by breaking down complex concepts into something more accessible. I hope you’re finding this process helpful and that it’s inspiring you to dig deeper into God’s Word.

God commands us to love him with all our heart, strength, and mind. That means we’re called to do some mental work. I’m here to make that work a little less daunting and, hopefully, a lot more enjoyable for you.

In the coming posts, we’ll spend more time exploring the importance of context. I know it may seem tedious, but understanding these concepts is critical for rightly interpreting the Word of God. If you stick with me and engage with the material, I promise that your relationship with the Bible will transform. Regardless of your background or education level, you’ll gain a deeper understanding that will change the way you read Scripture.

If you ever feel lost or confused, please don’t hesitate to reach out—whether in the comments or through our Facebook group. I’ll do everything I can to help. That’s my promise and my calling.