The interpretation and application of biblical passages can, at times, lead to subjective experiences resembling psychological manipulation. This arises when individuals or groups utilize specific verses or narratives to invalidate, distort, or deny another person’s feelings, experiences, or perceptions. An example might be selectively quoting scripture to suggest that someone’s suffering is a divine test they must endure in silence, effectively dismissing their genuine pain and need for support.
Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for fostering healthy hermeneutics and promoting respectful dialogue within religious communities. It encourages critical thinking and safeguards against the potential for misusing scripture to exert undue influence or control. Historically, such selective application has been observed in various contexts, ranging from personal relationships to broader societal structures, often reinforcing existing power dynamics and suppressing dissenting voices.
