• Journal of Christian Education in Korea
• /
• v.67
• /
• pp.45-75
• /
• 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore a new paradigm for Bible didactics in the context of the contemporary times and it turns its gaze to the midrash, the old tradition of Hebrew Bible interpretation. In order for the current Bible study to be meaningful and effective in today's situation, it is an effort to connect the Bible and us well, more than educational contents or materials. The word "midrash" itself means "textual interpretation", or "study", derived from the root verb darash, which means "to seek," "to seek with care," "to enquire," "to require" forms of which appear frequently in the Hebrew Bible. Midrash means an exegesis and interpretation of the Hebrew Bible (Torah) as well as a group of works that are the result of specific interpretations of the rabbis. This rabbinical tradition provides specific interpretative guidelines dealing with the Bible. These interpretive guidelines were passed down and formed an attitude of interpreting the Bible that is still relevant today. The rabbinical interpretative guidelines in midrash lead to the discovery of the following biblical didactical meanings. First, the Bible requires an attitude of listening and learning. Second, an attitude of inquiry is needed. Third, an exploration through the empty space is essential. Fourth, it leads us to recognize the importance of mutual respect and communication. Fifth, through the Words that challenge me, the meaning of biblical teaching is discovered. These interpretation guidelines have much in common with Bibliodrama, which applies midrash to the didactic of Bible. Bibliodrama is a dramatic inquiry, where the effect of in-depth inquiry and consideration that midrash aimed at can be expected. In addition, bibliodrama is a process of communal interaction that leads to a new experience and a richer understanding of the Bible through different positions and viewpoints. Exploring the "white fire" of the Bible, we listen to what God says to us, which causes us to change and form an identity. The biblical didactical meaning found in midrash's interpretation guidelines and the biblical didactical application of midrash through the bibliodrama can be presented as a new alternative to Christian education for the past, the present and the future. This will be able to present a new paradigm for biblical didactics with the word of God living and working in the present, not the Bible of the past, which is far from our present life.