Paul and the Scriptures of Israel: How much hermeneutical awareness did he display?

In the study of Paul's use of the Scriptures oflsTac1 the question regarding his conscious hermeneutical awareness is oilen neglected. Recently wider acknowledgement ha~ been given to Paul's scriptural quotations and allusions. spawning also a wide range of theories concerning his reasons and motives for it. as well discussion on his methods and techniques. However, it is equally important to consider whether Paul himself consciously reflected on his dialogical engagement with Scripture. A number of texts suggest that, without promoting an earlier equivalent of a hermeneutical theory or practice. Paul indeed accounted for various aspects of his use of Scripture. With reference to a few such passages from his letters, Paul seems to suggest the ongomg alue of Scripture for contemporary readers and the importance of transmitted traditions. Some rudimentary and broad hermeneutical thoughts can also be listed as being indicative of Paul's hermeneutical awareness. 1. Introduction: Pauline exegesis and henneneutics 1 beyond apologetics There is little disagreement that Paul frequently quored from or alluded to other documents or traditions t.n the letters he composed, referring co bach the communications directed at him (cf. Omanson 1992,201-213) as well to contemporary traditions known to him. The latter prominently includes his use of the Scriptures of Israel. Paul's use ofthesc traditions has bred some interesting discussions, led to some fierce debare and intense controversy, but, more importantly, has illustrated its usefulness for a better understanding of the Pauline documents.