Eat This Book by Eugene Peterson - Essay Example

Eating is a basic human need and the author is sending a message that the book can be considered as an essential element for survival, taking all the meaning in and not specifically. On page 7, the author compared reading the bible to stepping out of the cave into the real world based on Plato’s analogy. Parts two and chapter three is about learning from the bible and not using the content to personal advantage. On page 22, it is expressed by the author based on the bible that it is important to eat the book because it should be nourishment.

The third part until the fifth part explores the different roles of scriptures such as being the text that gives lessons to learn, the form which is about following the way of Jesus, and as a script that is to be shared with the world (pp. 22-76). The second and third chapters are in-depth looks at the specific concepts and teachings and the manner of understanding them. Topics within the chapters Lectio Divina and The Company of Translators provide structure to the teaching and scriptures and point out the importance of participatory reading. The author has the last part of the third chapter to the issue regarding the translation of the bible and the effect on understanding its content.

Reading the book can encourage readers to read the bible. It is a different, open, and light approach to a serious literary work that is respected by faith. The title can be considered a witty way to denote the urgent need to imbibe the message of the book since it is essential to human beings’ survival. The author’s religion is greatly reflected in the book. His passion for his faith and the need to make people realize that eating the book or metaphorically digesting its content is evident in every line. Even the last half where the author has the initiative to translate the bible from the original language to be able to achieve the message version reflects the need he felt in decreasing the confusion by basing his discussions on the already translated versions. These observations depict the author’s message that life should be lived and understood through the scriptures.

On a personal note, reading the book is inspiring although it can be considered that not all readers would have the same reaction. This can be attributed to the fact that it is a Christian religious book. For open-minded readers though, how the author described the need to live and understand life based on a book of faith can be inspiring and can be followed regardless of faith or religion. The concept of how to read the bible is what Eating This Book is all about. In addition, the idea that people need to both listen and read the scripture is an interesting perspective to imbibing any concept or knowledge. This book is a good read but there is one criticism which is the fact that it covers a lot of topics. It must have been interesting if fewer concepts were covered in a more in-depth and philosophical manner. In general, though the book is very inspiring. Read More