Midrashic interpretation is a Jewish method of interpreting biblical texts that goes beyond the literal meaning. It is an ancient tradition that seeks to uncover the deeper layers of meaning in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament through storytelling, allegory, and symbolism. In Midrash, rabbis and scholars engage in creative and imaginative interpretations to bring out the moral, ethical, and spiritual lessons found in the text.

Through Midrashic interpretation, students will learn how to look beyond the surface level of the biblical text and explore the richness and complexity of its teachings. By engaging with Midrash, students will gain a deeper understanding of the theological structure of the Hebrew Bible and New Testament, and appreciate the diversity of interpretations and perspectives within the Jewish tradition. This course will provide students with the tools to critically analyze and interpret biblical texts using Midrashic methods.

What is a Midrashic Hermeneutic?

The interpretation of Scripture is called hermeneutics. Our approach to hermeneutics will always be influenced by our worldview, our own culture, and the presuppositions we bring to the task.[25]

A Midrash is a pattern, it is not a prediction. The western mindset looks at prophecy merely as prediction and fulfillment, whereas the Jewish worldview sees repeated cycles and patterns.[26] It is these repetitions that lead Biblical writers, and us their readers, to understand the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan. The Jewish view sees layers of meaning in the patterns, not just one prophetic fulfillment.

Midrashim (plural for Midrash) are the interpretations of the Jewish Bible that are understood by ancient Jewish scribes and even rabbis today. This includes Jesus and Paul in the first century.[27] Interpretive consensuses were and are made as a community.[28] This concept of consensus within the Community is the theological underpinning of Peter and Paul’s statements:[29]

‘...that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation... but holy men of God spoke...’ (2 Peter 1.16-21)

‘What advantage then has the Jew [Praisers]? or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because that unto THEM [the Community] were committed the oracles of God-The Father.’ (Romans 3.1-2 NMV)[30]

Both Peter and Paul’s references are very much in line with the Midrashic principles and threads laid down by Moses, Ezra, and even Jesus. Other cross-references which bolster this principle of Community Consensus include (but are not limited to), Deuteronomy 4.7-8, Isaiah 8.20, Psalm 78.4-7, Nehemiah 9.13-14, Acts 7.32, Revelation 22.6, Romans 9.4, 11.1-2, 15-23, 28-29.

Key Lesson Concepts:

• Midrashic interpretation is a Jewish method of interpreting biblical texts that goes beyond the literal meaning
• It seeks to uncover deeper layers of meaning through storytelling, allegory, and symbolism
• Students will learn the basic concepts for how Biblical writers interpreted other texts using Midrashic methods