PARADIGM CHANGES IN THE BIBLE SCIENCES AND THE TEACHING OF BIBLICAL STUDIES IN THE NEW SOUTH AFRICA

  • Izak JJ Spangenberg University of South Africa
Keywords: Bible Sciences, Biblical Studies, Religious Education

Abstract

In 1991 a paper was read by Professor Canaan Banana of Zimbabwe in which he called upon biblical scholars to rewrite the Bible in order to make it more relevant to the people of Africa of the twentieth century.  He substantiated this call by arguing that the Bible could easily be used by some to oppress others when we ignore the fact that it is the product of humans.  This article endeavours to support Banana’s call, indicating that since the Reformation three paradigm changes have occurred in the field of Biblical Studies.  These changes led to a new understanding of how the Bible came into being and how it should be read and applied to our circumstances.  There is no need to rewrite the Bible if cognisance is taken of these paradigm shifts.  Biblical scholars should ensure that these shifts are reflected in the new curricula of Religious Education and Biblical studies in post-apartheid South Africa.

Author Biography

Izak JJ Spangenberg, University of South Africa
University of South AfricaDepartment of Old Testament
Published
2019-09-10
Section
Articles