From the symbol of the word in the bible to the theology of justification

Abstract

The semantic and hermeneutic range of the biblical concept of the word determines religious hermeneutics, directions of developing systematic theology and research directions, and indicates under which aspects the Jewish-Christian concept of the word complements the general concept of the word and, consequently, of communication and dialogue. To understand the meaning of»word« in the Bible in all its multiple representations and interpretations, it is important to consider the relationship between descriptive or narrative and normative or doctrinal ways of expressing beliefs and values. Considering the Bible as a whole leads to recognition of a remarkable diversity of descriptive and normative ways of expression that are interrelated and support each other. Priorities in this or the other direction determine considerably interreligious relations. This issue will be illustrated through the use of the concept of justice and related words in the forensic sense of divine retribution and in its redemptive sense of righteousness and grace when related to God. When related to the human subject the issue is the alternative of justice as a norm and of righteousness in the sense of faith. A comparison between the use of the term of justice or righteousness in the Old and New Testaments will be especially helpful.