Bedreiging en verlossing in 2 Konings 6:24 - 7:20 - ’n literêr-teoretiese benadering

Abstract

Instead of regarding a biblical text as an archaeological field filled with revelations of God which only need to be exposed, this article focuses on the relationship between the text and its readers. The aim is to discuss the way in which readers can be helped to interpret the text in a certain way. To read is an enjoyable experience which leaves no one untouched. In the play between intrigue and the development of various characters the readers are invited to get to know themselves. The text on which this approach will be applied, is 2 Kings 6:24-7:20. This approach is part of a literary theoretical approach which is not always appreciated by Reformed scholars. Because of the novelty of this approach in the theology of the Gereformeerde Kerke in South Africa, this article endeavours to explain the legitimacy of the approach. It also discusses the concept of narrator while illustrating the use of the concept in the above-mentioned text. The notion of perspective in the sense of focalisation and ideological perspective is also discussed.