Abstract
D.Litt. et Phil.
In this study James 3:13:4:12 is examined by applying the basic premises
presented by a semiotic as well as a hermeneutic inter textual theory in order to (a)
understand the specific functioning of the text in its socio-historic context and (b)
investigate the possibilities of reading this text from a post-modern perspective. The
application of these basic aims delivers some surprising and exciting results:
The basic argument presented in 3:13-4:12 is clarified, namely the writer's
concern about the competing wisdom teachers in the Christian community.
Criteria for identifying wise and unwise teachers are given. The investigation into
the literal relationships reflected in James 3:13-4:12, contibutes to solve
sintactical and semantical problems functioning on the structural surface of the
text. Questions concerning the transactional aspects of the text, namely the
pragmatic function of inter texts in this specific pericope is answered.
The context implied by James 3:13-4:12 is clarified, namely the extra-textual
situation (teachers competing since the positions of wisdom teacher in holds
financial advantages and status in the community), the dating of James (written
around the second quarter of the second century), the theme of wisdom in
James, the mythological framework supposed, Hellenistic topics reflected in this
writing, James' usage of the Old Testament and the eschatological theme.
The text is reread in a post-modern context. The text reveals ideological interests
and explains the author's views on the place of females in the church structure. It
is argued that the social categories and the hierarchal system of leadership found
in this writing are relative to its time and should be re-evaluated against the
needs and circumstances of our own time.
It is concluded that a intertextual approach to reading, interpreting and
understanding New Testament texts may render a significant contribution to New
Testament studies.