Book Critique
Misreading Scripture Through Western Eyes
William (Greg) Hyche
NBST-610
September 29,2024
Book Critique: Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to
Better Understand the Bible by Richards & O’Brien Not ready for submission- Review only
Introduction
The book by Richards and O’Brien’s Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes endeavors to reveal
the cultural lens that Western readers bring to biblical text. Western readers, because of
cultural pretext, can at times approach scripture in numerous ways. As a result, the authors
suggest that it is highly possible for Western readers to misinterpret and misunderstand biblical
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scripture. Because of various misunderstandings of Scripture from cultural biases, it is possible
for there to be many unintended consequences such as the misinterpretation of the biblical
text. Cultural bias can be hard to recognizable by many Western readers according to the
authors. The author’s primary objective is to equip those who like to read and teach the Bible
with a better understanding on how to be alert of cultural biases. The author’s objective is that
through Western readers becoming more alert of cultural biases they might reduce
misinterpretations of biblical scripture.
Summary
The central feature that the authors confront is how cultural blinders impact biblical
interpretation. Richards and O’Brien assert that modern Western readers can misinterpret
Scripture because of deeply ingrained cultural assumptions. Cultural assumptions such as
individualism, materialism, and a linear view of time can, in their view, distort the meaning of
the Bible, which was written in an incredibly different cultural context than ours today.
The primary themes in the book include the differences between Western and Eastern
perceptions of community, the role of individualism and the role of honor and shame, in the
community context. The authors assert that to misunderstand the way an Eastern community
engages the community can deeply result in a misinterpretation of Scripture. The authors
explore how Western cultural values can contribute to a misreading of scripture. The West
prioritizes personal individual freedom more than the responsibility of the community. An
attitude of “rough rugged individualism” can contribute to misunderstanding scripture
particularly those involving ethical and moral teachings. The book also considers how
Westerners views of race, gender and social status can distort their interpretation of critical
biblical texts.
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Analysis
Richards and O’Brien write from the perspective of evangelical Christians who are committed to
a high view of Scripture and strict biblical interpretation. Their central thesis is concrete and
straightforward: In their view, Western cultural presumptions routinely interfere with a proper
understanding of biblical scripture and biblical text. This perspective reflects a post-colonial
awareness that aims to challenge the implicit ethnocentrism that routinely empowers Western
interpretations of Scripture. Their concern is not only an exegetical problem but also an ethical
one because as they assert that proper interpretation of Scripture is crucial for faithful Christian
living.
The authors aid their argument with numerous examples of cultural blinders. Cultural blinders
ranging from minor issues such as Western understanding of biblical hospitality to major
theological concepts such as how Western individualism can hinder the biblical teaching on the
gospel and salvation. The examples they give are well considered and explain the authors’
depth of understanding. For example, their discussion of the parable of the Prodigal Son reveals
how Western readers tend to focus on the individual’s repentance and forgiveness. Conversely,
readers from honor-shame cultures would focus on the father’s public forgiveness of his son as
a major cultural sermon about reconciliation and honor.
One of the book’s strongest strengths is its absolute clarity. The writing is easy to understand
even for those with little or no theological training. The authors avoid complex principals and
seem to explain difficult concepts without unnecessary verbiage. The logical flow of their
assertions is for the most part strong. Although there are occasional applications where more
evidence would be helpful. For example, while the authors do make a strong case that
individualism hinders interpretations of biblical texts, they could have included a closer analysis
of how non-Western readers interpret these same texts.
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An additional point of consideration is the limited scope of the audience. The authors write
primarily for Western readers who are most likely unaware of their cultural and social biases.
Additionally, the authors do not abundantly engage with scholarly critiques of their approach,
which possibly could have deepened their critical evaluation.
While the book does identify the challenge of cultural blinders, its solutions could seem a bit
simplistic. The authors assert that awareness of cultural differences and challenges can lead to
better biblical interpretation; However, they do not fully confront the challenges that exist in
overcoming diverse cultural perspectives when reading and interpreting biblical text. The book
might have been enhanced from a more detailed discussion of non-Western hermeneutical
approaches to biblical interpretation.
Conclusion
For the most part, Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes offers a significate contribution to
biblical studies by emphasizing the often-overlooked role of culture in biblical interpretation.
The book accomplishes its goal of making bible students more alert to the cultural assumptions
they bring to biblical interpretation. The book additionally provides practical tools for
minimizing the impact of cultural blinders. The accessibility and easy to read format make it an
excellent resource for lay leaders, seminary students, and pastors alike.
However, for the more advanced reader or for someone highly trained in intercultural
hermeneutics, the book might seem somewhat elementary. However, its focus on humility and
self-awareness, to non-Western perspectives is a critical reminder of the importance of reading
the bible in a way that honors both its ancient context and its eternal impact.
Those who will benefit most from this book are Western Christians who seek to deepen their
understanding of the Bible by overcoming their own cultural biases. The book encourages
readers to approach scripture with humility and a desire to learn from others. Therefore,
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making it an encouraging tool for anyone engaged in cross-cultural ministry or biblical
interpretation.
Footnotes
1. Richards, E. Randolph, and Brandon J. O'Brien. Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes:
Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible. Downers Grove, IL:
IVP Books, 2012.
2. Ibid., 15-20.
3. Ibid., 80-82.
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Bibliography
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