Principles of interpretation (Hermeneutics) 1) Literal Principle — Scripture is to be understood
in its
natural, normal sense, read literally 2) Grammar Principle — Deal with what it says
in the way it says it, be it using metaphor, simile, narrative, etc. 3) Historical Principle — Read the Bible
in its historical
context 4) Synthesis Principle — No one part of the Bible contradicts any other part (Scripture interprets Scripture) 5) Practical Principle — It contains a practical application 6) Illumination of the Holy Spirit — It is the job of the Holy Spirit to enlighten the child of God to the meaning of Scripture, without Him, one is without the
ability to interpret Scripture
They are capacities and
abilities to act
in certain characteristic ways
in relation to God, and to ourselves, other persons, and the social and
natural contexts of our lives insofar as all of these are related to God.
Marshall suggests that it also emphasizes the importance of considering broader environmental
contexts, such as predation risk, as well as the perceptual
abilities of
natural observers like predators
in studies of animal behavior.