Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes

Patronage, Honor, and Shame in the Biblical World

By: E. Randolph Richards, Richard James

Narrated by: Tom Parks

The Bible was written within collectivist cultures. When Westerners, immersed in individualism, read the Bible, it's easy to misinterpret important elements - or miss them altogether. In any culture, the most important things usually go without being said. So to read Scripture well we benefit when we uncover the unspoken social structures and values of its world. We need to recalibrate our vision.

Combining the expertise of a biblical scholar and a missionary practitioner, Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes is an essential guidebook to the cultural background of the Bible and how it should inform our reading. E. Randolph Richards and Richard James explore deep social structures of the ancient Mediterranean - kinship, patronage, and brokerage - along with their key social tools - honor, shame, and boundaries - that the biblical authors lived in and lie below the surface of each text. From Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar to Peter's instructions to elders, the authors strip away individualist assumptions and bring the world of the biblical writers to life.

Expanding on the popular Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes, this book makes clear how understanding collectivism will help us better understand the Bible, which in turn will help us live more faithfully in an increasingly globalized world.

©2020 E. Randolph Richards and Richard James (P)2020 eChristian

Impact of cultural, conceptual, and linguistic differences

Use of different languages to break down concepts. Personal stories to illustrate points and highlight differences and similarities in customs and practices. Very enlightening and fascinating

Excellent

I already listened to Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes, so I was worried that it would be mostly the same book. But this book brought valuable insights all of it’s own. Will definitely be rereading and recommending to others. Would be great for a discussion group too.

Fantastic Book

The first book was great but this one takes it to another level. Fantastic context everyone needs to build into their paradigm when studying the Bible.

Profound

this book has opened my eyes regarding the atmosphere of the culture at the time scripture was writing. It help bring a deeper meaning and understanding to many verses that just didn't seem right when reading with an individuallist mindset. I highly recommend this book!

I really enjoyed this book!

I really enjoyed this book! A good look at how we can miss things. Hopefully it will encourage you.