Definition

1. Noun:
   • The interpretation of a text (especially a sacred text like the Bible) by reading one's own ideas, biases, or preconceptions into it: Eisegesis is the process of subjectively imposing a personal meaning onto a text, rather than objectively drawing out the meaning that is present within the text itself. It is often contrasted with exegesis.

Usage

• Eisegesis is a critical term used primarily in academic fields such as theology, literary criticism, and hermeneutics (the theory of interpretation).
• It describes an interpretive method considered flawed or biased because it prioritizes the reader's subjective perspective over the text's original intent or context.
• The term is most commonly applied to interpretations of religious scriptures but can be used for any text.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The preacher's sermon was criticized as pure eisegesis, as he seemed to be inserting modern political views into the ancient parable.
  • Good biblical scholarship avoids eisegesis and strives for exegesis.
  • Her reading of the poem was an eisegesis, reflecting her own experiences more than the poet's likely meaning.

Advanced Usage

• "To read eisegetically": To engage in the practice of eisegesis.
  • He tends to read eisegetically, always finding his own beliefs confirmed in whatever he studies.

Variants and Related Words

• Exegesis (n): The critical explanation or interpretation of a text, especially of scripture. This is the antonym and correct counterpart to eisegesis.
  • The professor's exegesis of the passage considered its historical context and original language.
• Eisegetical (adj): Pertaining to or characterized by eisegesis.
  • His eisegetical approach led to many unconventional conclusions.

Synonyms

• Subjective interpretation: Interpretation based on personal feelings or opinions.
• Reading into: The informal act of attributing a meaning not supported by the text.

Antonyms

• Exegesis: Objective interpretation.
• Hermeneutics: The general study of the principles of interpretation.

Noun

1. personal interpretation of a text (especially of the Bible) using your own ideas