Monday, February 6, 2023

Jerome H. Neyrey on 2 Peter 1:20

 

 

The Greek term epilysis derives from the verb epilyō, which suggests that riddles are solved (Josephus, Ant. 8.167) or ambiguities resolved (Philo, Agr. 16) or sophistries exposed (Sextus, Adv. Pyrrh. 2.246) or hidden meanings revealed (Mark 4:34). Epilysis basically means explanation or interpretation (Vettius Valens 221.9; 330.10; Gen 40:8 Aquila; Clement, Paed. 2.1.14). Later the author admits that Paul’s writings are “hard to understand” (3:16) and require careful interpretation. And in both of his letters, he himself is giving them a “correct understanding” of the words of the prophets (3:1). Hence, in 1:20 he indicates the need for correct or traditional interpretation of obscure prophetic materials, claiming that capability while denying it to his adversaries. (Jerome H. Neyrey, 2 Peter, Jude: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary [AYB 37C; New Haven: Yale University Press, 2008], 184)

 


Further Reading:


Not By Scripture Alone: A Latter-day Saint Refutation of Sola Scriptura