HYPERBOLE / EXAGGERATION
The Bible, as a work of divine inspiration conveyed through human authors, employs various literary devices to communicate profound spiritual truths. One such device is hyperbole, a form of exaggeration used for emphasis and impact. In Catholic biblical interpretation, understanding the use of hyperbole is crucial for grasping the intended message without falling into overly literal interpretations.
The Bible provides numerous examples of hyperbolic language. For instance, in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus declares:
“If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna” (Mt 5:29). This statement is not meant to be taken literally as a call for self-mutilation. Rather, it emphasizes the gravity of sin and the need for radical action to avoid it. The Catechism of the Catholic Church elaborates on this, stating that such language “must be understood in the context of Jesus’ call to radical conversion” (CCC 2517).
Similarly, when Jesus says, “If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple” (Lk 14:26), He is not advocating for actual hatred of family. Instead, this hyperbole underscores the primacy of one’s relationship with God over all earthly attachments.
The Gospel of John concludes with a striking example of hyperbole: “There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written” (Jn 21:25). This statement serves to emphasize the immeasurable impact of Jesus’ life and ministry, rather than making a literal claim about the volume of potential writings.
Catholic teaching encourages a nuanced approach to interpreting Scripture, considering both its divine inspiration and human authorship. The Pontifical Biblical Commission’s document “The Interpretation of the Bible in the Church” (1993) emphasizes the importance of understanding the literary genres and cultural contexts of biblical texts for proper interpretation.
REFLECTION
For us as Christians today, recognizing hyperbole in Scripture invites us to look beyond the surface meaning and seek the deeper spiritual truths being conveyed. It challenges us to approach the Bible with both faith and reason, understanding that God’s word often transcends literal interpretations.
As we encounter hyperbolic language in Scripture, we are called to reflect on the urgency and importance of the message being conveyed. Whether it’s the call to radical discipleship, the imperative of avoiding sin, or the unfathomable richness of Christ’s life and teachings, these exaggerated expressions should move us to deeper commitment and more profound faith.
In our daily lives, let us strive to embody the spirit of these teachings, recognizing that while the language may be exaggerated, the underlying truths are of utmost importance. May we approach Scripture with humility, seeking the guidance of the Church and the Holy Spirit to discern its true meaning and apply it to our lives with wisdom and devotion.