The interpretation of Sacred Scripture is a complex process that must be conducted within the living Tradition of the whole Church and guided by the Holy Spirit (CCC 113). To ensure the coherence of the truths of faith within the plan of Revelation, the interpreter must employ the analogy of faith (CCC 115). This framework is enriched by the four senses of Scripture: the literal, allegorical, moral, and anagogical (CCC 115-117). While the literal sense provides the foundation, the anagogical sense specifically directs the believer toward the eternal significance of events and the true homeland in heaven.

Correct interpretation requires a careful attentiveness to both the divine revelation intended by God and the intentions of the human authors (CCC 110). This necessitates a study of the historical context, cultural norms, and literary genres of the time in which the text was written (CCC 110). While the literal sense is essential, a fundamentalist approach that insists on a strictly literal reading while excluding historical-critical methods is not biblical (CCC 111-119). Furthermore, the primeval history in Genesis 1-11 demonstrates that fundamental truths about the origin of the world and humanity can be distinct from their literary expression.

Beyond the literal sense, Scripture frequently employs symbolic and typological language to convey spiritual truths. The Book of Revelation, as a work of apocalyptic literature, uses symbols such as colors, metals, and numbers—where seven signifies totality or perfection—to describe God’s power and judgment (CCC 118). For example, Jesus Christ is symbolically depicted as a lamb with seven horns and seven eyes to convey His universal knowledge and power (Rev 5:6). Similarly, the Gospel of John utilizes signs and wondrous deeds to symbolize the creative and transforming work of Jesus. This symbolic approach extends to typology, where the Paschal catechesis of Christ and the Apostles reveals how Old Testament figures and events prefigure Christ in salvation history (CCC 1095).

The process of interpretation is not a solitary endeavor but is centered on the mystery of Christ (Eph 3:4) and the authority of the Church. The Magisterium holds authority over divine Revelation (CCC 2036), and the Church exercises divine authority to form a firm judgment on the meaning of the Word of God. Because the Holy Spirit inspired the sacred writings, the text must be read in the light of the Spirit (CCC 111) and interpreted in a way that respects the unity of the whole of Scripture (CCC 112). This requires an obedience of faith (Rom 1:5, 16:26) and a servant-like devotion to understanding the revealed message.

To apply these texts to contemporary life, a hermeneutical process is required that acknowledges the autonomy and otherness of the text, requiring the reader to distance themselves from it to avoid purely subjective readings (CCC 115). An authentic interpretation connects the biblical text with the present experience of faith in the world (CCC 112), ensuring the message is responsive to contemporary needs while remaining grounded in the text’s verification. The ultimate goal is to grasp the meaning of the Word as God’s word for today (CCC 111), as the word of God is deprived of its efficacy if it is not properly interpreted (Mt 13:19).