Are We “Misreading” Paul? Oral Phenomena and their Implication for the Exegesis of Paul’s Letters

• Issue: Volume 24, Number 1
• Author(s): Sam Tsang
• Article: View PDF | Download PDF
• Citation: http://journal.oraltradition.org/issues/24i/tsang

Abstract

For a substantial period, orality studies were primarily restricted to non-biblical literature. Ever since the application of orality studies to Gospel criticism, however, this approach has moved from a peripheral to a central place in Gospel studies. However, its application to the letters of Paul has remained quite limited. This article investigates some of the interpretive possibilities that can enhance current methods of reading Paul, taking into account the implications of orality studies in order to hear Paul’s message from the perspective of the original audience.