Thompson's modes of operation of ideology and depth hermeneutics as hermeneutical tools: ideology and the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 4 23-7:29)
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Date
2004
Authors
Foshaugen, E. K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State
Abstract
English: This article will first provide a synopsis of Thompson’s understanding of ideology
and then apply it to two selected verses (Mt. 5:3 & 4) from the Sermon on the
Mount. An attempt will be made to reveal the existence of an ideology in the text,
determine its symbolic form and construction, and confirm the suitability of Thompson’s
modes of operation of ideology and depth hermeneutics as tools of interpretation
to be applied to the text. This methodology will disclose how one could control
the masses with an ideology that claimed to benefit them; how the text can be
presenting an opposing ideology to the prevailing ideologies and finally show that
the text also reveals an asymmetrical relation of power and dominion between God
and the hearers of the text that ultimately will benefit them. Reading the text in its
particular social-historical setting this article will endeavour to disclose and draw
attention to symbolic phenomena that serve and sustain relations (domination being
one aspect of this association) between God and his people who are the oppressed
and persecuted.
Description
Keywords
Matthew 5:3-4, Sermon on the Mount, Ideology, Hermeneutics, J.B. Thomson
Citation
Foshaugen, E. K. (2004). Thompson's modes of operation of ideology and depth hermeneutics as hermeneutical tools: ideology and the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 4:23-7:29). Acta Theologica, 24(1), 186-200.