Canonical criticism

Canonical criticism, sometimes called the canonical approach, is a way of interpreting the Bible that focuses on the text of the biblical canon itself as a finished product. It has been made popular by Brevard Childs, though he personally dislikes the term. Whereas other types of biblical criticism focus on the origins, structure and history of the text, canonical criticism looks at the meaning the text in its final form has for the community which uses it. 
==Description==
Canonical criticism involves "paying attention to the present form of the text in determining its meaning for the believing community."John N. Oswalt, "Canonical Criticism: A Review From A Conservative Viewpoint," Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 30.3 [1987] 318. Or looking at the text with a view point from today rather than it would be view back then.
==Origins==
Canonical criticism is a relatively new approach to biblical studies. As recently as 1983, James Barr could state that canon had no hermeneutical significance for biblical interpretation.James Barr, Holy Scripture: Canon, Authority, Criticism (Westminster John Knox, 1983), 67.
==Criticism==
The canonical approach has been criticised by scholars from both liberal and evangelical perspectives.
==References==
==See also==
==External links==
Norman Gottwald, Social Matrix and Canonical Shape, Theology Today 42 [1985]
Category:Biblical criticism