Q&A: The Hebrew Bible at Eye Level
The Hebrew Bible at Eye Level
Question
What is the objection of the Har Hamor school to studying the Hebrew Bible “at eye level,” and where does it come from? Does the Rabbi think it is justified?
Answer
I don’t like explaining other people’s views, especially those I disagree with and don’t think highly of (such as the people of Har Hamor). It seems to me that there are two levels of discussion here that for some reason go together: A. A factual one: were the figures of the Hebrew Bible human beings, or entities above human nature? B. An educational one: is it possible to create genuine fear of Heaven when looking at them at eye level.
Seemingly there is no connection between these two levels, but for some reason they always go together.
For me, they don’t entirely go together. In my opinion: A — no; B — maybe. But there is one hidden assumption that I do not agree with, namely that the facts should be subordinated to educational considerations. With that I do not agree. Therefore, if the truth is that the answer to A is negative, then even if the educational consideration is correct, I do not give it priority. Facts are facts.
Discussion on Answer
Please explain and give examples of the meaning of studying the Hebrew Bible at eye level. Does it really mean sticking only to the plain meaning?
In any case, my opinion is that the Hebrew Bible should be studied however one wants; the main thing is to arrive at the ultimate divine will implied by the text, even if that is not exactly the plain meaning (sometimes).
Please explain and give examples of the meaning of studying the Hebrew Bible at eye level. Does it really mean sticking only to the plain meaning?
In any case, my opinion is that the Hebrew Bible should be studied however one wants; the main thing is to arrive at the ultimate divine will implied by the text, even if that is not exactly the plain meaning (sometimes).