LOLOL Yep, having been a participant in the Men of the Bema (MOB) debates on Thursday nights, I can witness to the debating skills of Rabbis and synagogue elders.
Concerning my attempt at humor earlier. It is a true statement that where two Jews, there opinions. It works out like this:
There is your opinion, there is my opinion, and there is the opinion concerning what we agree on.
These 'discussions' can get quite intense. But, there is also healthy aspect to it. During the discussions one can make any claim they wish concerning the language, interpretation or application of scripture. At any time, anyone can challenge the person making a statement with the command, "Prove it."
At this point, the statement maker must quote (turn to) the scripture(s) that support his position, and explain how those scriptures accomplish that end. At this point a new discussion usually ensues concerning the correct interpretation/application of the referenced scriptures. The result is one must first know his scriptures and be able to defend his understanding of them - while (hopeful) remaining teachable.
Concerning the several levels of interpretation of scripture.
Yes, there a number of different levels of 'understanding'. While among the Hasidim the levels go to extreme lengths (Kabbala/Cabbala), the rule of thumb still remains that the most simple explanation is the best one.
However, to get an appreciation of this multi-level approach, including the God ordained examination of the underlying principles ('levels') of scripture, see Matthew chapters five through seven. There are also scriptural references to the Oral Law in these chapters. Also see
2 Timothy 3:8, reference to Jannes and Jambres, who are not otherwise identified in scripture.
Another problem is the failure of contemporary Bible teachers to understand the original languages and interpret our English translations according to the Hebrew (original authors) world view. This instructional failure is one of the direct causes of the multitude of Christian denominations of today - and they're still growing!.
Finally, how many time have any of us ever said, in reading a scripture I saw something in it I never saw before? Or, I got an understanding (insight, revelation) that I never got before. While the most obvious meaning of scripture is the best place to start, we should never be content to stay in the milk and pap stage. Milk is the surface, the meat is the not so obvious.
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