Abstract:
The New Testament documents represent a variety of perceptions about the church, showing
that the early church was not unitary in practise or theology. How do we explain the diversity in
the early church? Existential phenomenological hermeneutics can shine insightful light on this
question by utilising Heidegger’s concept of Dasein in an interpretation model. The model used
the pre-structure of Dasein (pre-understanding, presuppositions and prejudice) and its interactive
circular dynamic with the hermeneutical concepts of world and phenomena to table aspects of
the hermeneutic situation and the resultant Dasein types as self-understanding developed from
various groups’ interpretations of Jesus. In this way, the hermeneutic dynamic explains the
variety of pre- and post-Easter groups. The results show that there is no objective, standard view
of Jesus and no objective set of Jesus’ teachings available; no ideal Dasein type is presented for
faith communities. The kerygma of the Crucified and Risen One as God’s act of salvation is the
central presupposition of the church’s Dasein. The historical nature of hermeneutics cannot be
denied. Historical–critical exegesis and its circular dynamic of understanding is a legitimate and
sound hermeneutic model. Unhistorical hermeneutics have definite limitations and should be
deemed insufficient. There is no plain meaning of any phenomenon or text, only the text or
phenomenon as it is understood. Faith communities consciously partake in the hermeneutic
dynamic and recognise the influence of their pre-understandings, presuppositions and prejudices
which constantly be questioned and adjusted to facilitate their authentic Dasein.
CONTRIBUTION: This historical hermeneutical study explains that different hermeneutical
situations lead to different Dasein types as various self-understandings developed according
to Jesus groups’ interpretations of Jesus varied. No ideal Dasein type for faith communities is
presented. These findings resonate with HTS Theological Studies focus and scope regarding
historical thought in research.
