Chapter Two. On determining allusions and echoes: Definitions and methodology

Abstract

Interpreters have long been drawn to source investigation. The wealth of meaning that is uncovered when a literary allusion is detected draws interpreters to the occupation. This chapter discerns Paul's biblically rooted allusions and echoes in his letter to the Colossians. It appropriates the author-oriented approach mentioned by Stanley Porter, the kind that will orient one's discussion to the language of the author. Despite this author-oriented approach, the chapter also applies literary-critical tools in its investigation. Recently, literary-criticism has often presupposed an audience-oriented approach. In light of this, the question arises whether an interpreter may legitimately use literary-critical tools if a central presupposition of the approach is disregarded. The chapter combines the best of historical-critical and literary-critical methodology in a robust approach that will help us to overhear Paul's biblical allusions and echoes.Keywords: Colossians; echoes; interpreters; literary allusion; literary-critical tools; Paul's biblical allusions; Stanley Porter