Abstract:
This article examines briefly the virtues and vices of an immanent reading of
biblical texts. Due to the fact that Jurie le Roux is known as a historical critical scholar, a
synchronic methodology is exposed from a diachronic angle. The history and the philosophy underlying
a so-called structural analysis are highlighted, the value of this methodology for biblical exegesis
is appreciated, nevertheless, it is pointed out that a structural analysis should not mistakenly be
regarded as a hermeneutical tool. Furthermore, the theory of the aesthetics of reception of Hans
Robert Jauss is dealt with in a very cursory manner as another possible approach toward dealing with
biblical texts. However, a critical attitude is called for as it appears that every methodology has
its own apparatus that is designed for a particular purpose. Scholars who wish to work in an
interdisciplinary way, should do so in a critical and responsible manner.
