I spent a year interpreting biblical texts and it completely changed my perspective on life

Before immersing myself in the complex world of biblical texts a year ago, I was just like anyone else — seeing them as distant, ancient words with little relevance to my life.

I was living in Chicago, working a nine-to-five job in technology, and my knowledge of the Bible was limited to what I had learned in Sunday school growing up.

Then, out of curiosity and a desire to understand more about the world’s most translated book, I decided to dedicate an entire year to studying and interpreting biblical texts, both old and new.

My friends thought I had lost my mind. But something was pulling me towards this journey.

And so, I dove headfirst into the intricate narratives, historical contexts, and theological implications of these sacred texts.

It was like walking through a labyrinth with no map — challenging, often frustrating, but ultimately rewarding.

What I didn’t anticipate?

How much this deep dive into biblical texts would impact my everyday life and worldview once I stepped out of that metaphorical labyrinth.

Even though I’ve been back in my old Chicago neighborhood for six months now — amid skyscrapers instead of scripture — the ripple effects of that year continue to shape my thoughts and actions in surprising ways.

Here’s what life has been like since I closed the last page of the Bible and returned to my routine, carrying a radically different perspective.

Immersing myself in the world of biblical texts

Every morning, before the city of Chicago fully awoke, I would start my day with a cup of coffee and the Bible.

I had decided to read it like any other book, from Genesis to Revelation. But most importantly, I supplemented this with scholarly interpretations and historical context from various sources.

To be honest, the process was akin to learning a new language.

I was not just reading the texts but also interpreting them — making sense of metaphors, cultural references, and the socio-political contexts of the era they were written in.

The Bible is a mosaic of many genres — poetry, law, historical accounts, wisdom literature, and apocalyptic visions — and this variety was both a challenge and a delight.

But it wasn’t all scholarly work.

I also had to live with these texts, letting them sink into my daily life.

One surprising discovery was that biblical texts were not just religious documents but also historical narratives full of political intrigue, love stories, and tales of human struggle and triumph.

Imagine my surprise when I learned that King David, remembered as a hero in the Bible, was actually quite a complex character with serious flaws.

The most profound change, however, came from within.

As I wrestled with the texts’ meanings and interpretations, I found myself questioning long-held beliefs about life, morality, and the nature of faith.

My entire perspective started shifting.

Challenging popular perspectives

One of the common beliefs I encountered is that biblical texts are either purely historical documents or purely religious texts, with no room for overlap.

However, my immersion in these texts revealed that they are indeed a blend of both.

The Bible, embodying deep spiritual and theological teachings, also reflects the social and political milieu of its times.

It’s not just about divine revelation but also about human struggles, societal norms, power dynamics, and moral dilemmas.

For instance, the exodus of Israelites from Egypt is not just a tale of divine intervention, but also a story of liberation from oppression.

It speaks to the human yearning for freedom and justice.

Similarly, Jesus’ parables were not just about spiritual truths but often challenged the social and religious status quo of his time.

Consequently, interpreting biblical texts requires us to look beyond a literal or purely religious lens. It necessitates an understanding of historical contexts and an appreciation for metaphor and symbolism.

Interpreting biblical texts: How I got started

Get used to the idea that for starters, interpreting biblical texts is not an easy task.

It’s like deciphering a code or solving a complex puzzle. However, the key is to be open-minded, patient, and willing to grapple with uncomfortable questions.

One of the most essential steps I took was to put aside my preconceived notions.

It was crucial to approach the texts without any bias as if I were reading them for the first time. This allowed me to see beyond surface interpretations and delve into the deeper meanings.

Next, I made a concerted effort to understand the historical and cultural contexts of these texts.

This involved extensive research into the socio-political landscape of those times, which helped me appreciate why certain stories were written the way they were.

Lastly, I learned to embrace ambiguity. Biblical texts can be complex and open-ended, often leaving more questions than answers.

Instead of seeking concrete answers, I allowed myself to sit with these uncertainties and see what they revealed about life and faith.

If you’re considering a similar journey, these are the steps that worked for me.

But remember, it’s your own journey. There’s no right or wrong way to interpret these texts.

Embracing a holistic view of life

My journey through the labyrinth of biblical texts taught me valuable lessons that extended beyond the realm of religion or spirituality.

It made me realize that we often live our lives based on societal expectations or cultural programming, barely scratching the surface of our true potential.

Here’s what I learned:

• Take responsibility, even when it’s not your fault. This mindset empowers you to navigate life’s challenges.
• Learn to think for yourself. This helps you live life on your own terms, with more purpose and direction.
• Acknowledge your current dissatisfaction or struggles. This is the first step towards change.
• Understand external influences and societal conditioning. This awareness can liberate you from externally imposed expectations.
• Question societal myths and expectations that limit your potential. This helps you break free from the constraints that hold you back.

By following these principles, I was able to reinterpret biblical texts in a way that resonated with my personal beliefs and experiences.

It was no longer about conforming to widely held interpretations but about seeking truth in my own unique way.

While it’s a challenging task, trust me, the rewards are profound.

You gain insights that aren’t just confined to the spiritual realm but apply to every aspect of your life.