Outline for a Religious Exegesis

In religious studies, an exegesis usually means a close critical interpretation of a sacred text (sometimes also the commentary accompanying a creative or research project, especially in theology or ministry). This is a basic outline you could adapt for a religious exegesis in an academic or faith-based context:

1. Introduction

• Passage identification: cite the book, chapter, and verses under study.
• Contextual framing: why this passage matters (liturgical, theological, or scholarly significance).
• Purpose and scope: explain the aim of your exegesis (e.g., doctrinal, literary, historical, or pastoral focus).
• Methodological approach: specify whether you are using historical-critical, literary, theological, or contextual lenses (or a combination).

2. Textual Context

• Immediate context: where the passage sits within its chapter or section.
• Wider context: relation to the book as a whole and canonical placement.
• Genre and form: narrative, poetry, prophecy, epistle, etc.

3. Historical and Cultural Background

• Authorship and audience (if known).
• Date and setting of the text.
• Historical circumstances shaping the passage (e.g., exile, persecution, covenantal history).
• Cultural/religious influences (e.g., Jewish temple practices, Greco-Roman context).

4. Linguistic and Literary Analysis

• Key terms and word studies (Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek, or translated terms).
• Syntax and grammar that shape meaning.
• Rhetorical devices: repetition, parallelism, metaphor, symbolism.
• Structure: outline of how the passage is organised (e.g., chiastic patterns, stanzas, narrative flow).

5. Theological Themes

• Doctrinal insights (e.g., about God, humanity, salvation, covenant).
• Ethical or moral teaching.
• Connections to broader theological frameworks (e.g., Christology, eschatology, ecclesiology).

6. Interpretive Traditions

• Jewish, Christian, or denominational interpretations through history.
• Patristic, medieval, Reformation, and contemporary readings.
• Modern scholarship: critical debates, alternative interpretations.
• Interfaith or comparative perspectives (if relevant).

7. Contemporary Application

• Relevance to faith communities today (worship, preaching, pastoral care).
• Social/ethical implications (justice, inclusion, stewardship).
• Personal or communal spirituality.

8. Conclusion

• Summary of main exegetical insights.
• Contribution to understanding of the passage.
• Implications for further study, theology, or practice.

9. References / Bibliography

• Primary sources (scriptures, canonical texts).
• Secondary sources (commentaries, scholarly works, theological reflections).

Some institutions (especially in theology degrees) also require an exegesis together with a reflection, where the analysis is followed by a personal or ministerial reflection on how the interpretation shapes practice.