Peshat

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Peshat [or Pshat] is one of four classical methods used by Jewish bible scholars to understand the Hebrew bible. Peshat literally means "simple," and describes the meaning of the text apparent at face value. It is considered the most straightforward understanding of biblical text and by definition precludes hermeneutic devices or other methodological devices such as Remez, Drash, and Sod, which approach the text with different goals. Whenever possible, the peshat explanation will attempt to retain a literal understanding of the text. Peshat can be considered the cornerstone of an interpretation; if the final interpretation diverges from or contradicts the peshat, that final interpretation can be considered flawed. The Talmud affirms this, stating, "A verse cannot depart from its plain meaning."

Peshat bears striking parallels and has been compared to the concept of Exegesis.

See also

• Pardes (Jewish exegesis)
• Midrash
• Aggadata
• Halakha
• Zohar
• Kabbalah

External links

• PARDES levels of Biblical interpretaton
• KOLEL: PaRDeS

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Last updated on Monday December 03, 2007 at 11:11:19 PST (GMT -0800)
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