Abstract

This book contains a group of essays by internationally recognized scholars on Augustine's hermeneutical theory and practice of biblical exegesis attempting to understand Augustine (1) against his own intellectual background, (2) within his own works, and (3) in relation to traditional and contemporary discussions of biblical hermeneutics and exegesis. In the discussion of Augustine's theological works and pastoral sermons, consideration is given both to the science of hermeneutics and the art of exegesis. Ancient rhetoric, ancient philosophy, and earlier Christian exegetes are studied as they relate to Augustine as is Augustine's own synthesis. Augustine: Biblical Exegete sheds light on the continuity between the exegesis of earlier ages and our own.