Publication at Catholic Theological Faculty |
2014
Abstract
The paper presents Augustine's exegesis of curses and imprecations in the Psalms, as present in his Enarrationes in Psalmos. Firstly, the early stage of his interpretation of curses as prophecy is exhibited.
Secondly, a major broadening of Augustine's hermeneutics is shown, due to his acquaintance of Tyconius's exegetical rules. Thirdly, study of exemplary verses proves that all seven Tyconius's rules are present in Augustine's interpretation of the Psalms.
This attests that Augustine's allegorical exegesis of cursing psalms is not arbitrary but remains faithful to the Bishop's approach to interpretation of other difficult biblical texts.