Description: Historically, religious scriptures are defined as holy texts that are considered to be beyond the abilities of the layperson to interpret. Their content is most frequently analyzed by clerics who do not question the underlying political or social implications of the text, but use the writing to convey messages to their congregations about how to live a holy existence. In this innovative collection of essays that aims to turn the traditional bible-study definition of scriptures on its head, Vincent L. Wimbush leads an in-depth look at the social, cultural, and racial meanings invested in these texts.
Review Quotes: In Signifying on Scriptures, Wimbush inaugurates a conversation that fills enormous gaps in the study of religious texts and practices, and shifts the field to new dimensions of exploration and new possibilities for critical reflection.--Karen L. King "author of The Gospel of Mary of Magdala"