Steven K. answered • 03/22/24
Theology / Bible / Religion
The quotation, “Seek ye first the original meanings - and all these things shall be yours as well,” is difficult to pin to a specific corresponding work typically associate with Stendahl. The quotation is an adapted version of the original phrase found in Matthew 6:33, which states, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Within this context, if one is spiritually oriented in their commitment to God’s kingdom, the material and temporal matters of human life will be automatically taken care of as God’ love is extended to them in the course of their natural lives. Nonetheless, the essence of the statement can be applied to life in a broad sense regardless of the quote’s attribution to Stendahl or any of his relevant works.
With regard to the first half of the phrase, “Seek ye first the original meanings,” illudes to the traditional exegetical process of first looking beyond the surface, to understand the true essence of emotions, situations, historical interpretation, context, customs, and societal norms of the times in which the ancient texts were first penned. With the realm of biblical interpretation, historical context and meaning are important factors in one’s ability to accurately communicate the meaning found in the original text. In a modern context.
With regard to the second half of the phrase, “And all these things shall be yours as well,” meaning and application are derivations of the process of uncovering the original context in which the texts are set. After one moves through the exegetical process, one can arrive at meaning and application that is close to what the original authors intended while writing.
Taken together, there is an authentic understanding that can only be extracted after one honestly and thoughtfully commits to engagement with the material being studied. This is not simply a principle for biblical interpretation, but also a healthy practice that can be applied to any area of study. When an individual is committed to the authentic meaning, then the knowledge and understanding will be accessible to them, and in turn they are better equipped to apply that knowledge and understanding to life.
