Opus Majus, Volumes 1 and 2 by Roger Bacon (Bible and Science)

MJ. Smith

https://www.amazon.com/Opus-Majus-Volumes-1-2/dp/1512809993/ref%3Dsr_1_3?

This is an essential work for people interested in science and the Bible and what has been termed in Biblical interpretation as "Mosaic Physics".

From Perplexity:

Roger Bacon's approach to Scripture is best illustrated in his work Opus Maius (c. 1267), particularly in Part IV, where he discusses biblical exegesis, theology, and linguistic precision. His approach to Scripture emphasized the importance of linguistic accuracy, scientific knowledge, and historical context in interpretation.

Key Aspects of Bacon’s Approach to Scripture in Opus Maius

• Linguistic and Philological AnalysisBacon stressed the need for scholars to study Hebrew, Greek, and Latin to properly understand the Bible. He criticized reliance on poor translations and urged a return to original texts.He highlighted errors in the Vulgate and emphasized how mistranslations distorted theological meanings.

• Integration of Science and TheologyBacon believed that understanding astronomy, optics, and mathematics was crucial for interpreting biblical passages correctly.He argued that some miraculous events described in Scripture, such as the Star of Bethlehem, should be examined through scientific principles rather than blind acceptance.

• Historical and Cultural ContextHe insisted that biblical interpretation must consider the historical and cultural background of the text, including Jewish customs and ancient knowledge.His method anticipated later developments in historical-critical exegesis by emphasizing context over allegorical readings.

• Criticism of Scholastic MethodsBacon was highly critical of contemporary theologians who relied solely on Aristotelian logic without empirical verification. He believed this led to misinterpretation of Scripture and theological errors.

Other Works Reflecting His Biblical Approach

Compendium Studii Theologiae – Bacon argues that theological study must be grounded in linguistic accuracy, scientific reasoning, and direct engagement with biblical texts rather than relying on church authorities alone.

Opus Minus and Opus Tertium – These works expand on his criticisms of theological ignorance and the importance of natural sciences in biblical interpretation.

Conclusion

Roger Bacon’s approach to Scripture was precise, empirical, and critical. He sought to reform biblical interpretation by insisting on linguistic mastery, scientific integration, and historical awareness—a method that was ahead of its time and prefigured aspects of modern biblical scholarship.