SCRIPTURE, SCIENCE, AND EVOLUTION: TOWARDS A HERMENEUTICS OF INTEGRATION

Abstract

Contemporary debates on Scripture, science, and evolution remain polarized, often framed as conflict rather than constructive dialogue. This study addresses the persistent hermeneutical gap between biblical interpretation and evolutionary science within Christian theology, where integrative approaches are limited. It is guided by three questions: How can Scripture be interpreted responsibly without undermining evolution? What hermeneutical model best supports theology–science dialogue? How can such integration benefit faith communities and theological education? Grounded in a critical integrative hermeneutical framework informed by theological hermeneutics and philosophy of science, the study develops an approach that affirms both biblical authority and scientific integrity. It focuses on Genesis 1–3 and Psalm 104 alongside key evolutionary theories in contemporary scholarship. Using qualitative methods, data are drawn from textual analysis and recent peer-reviewed literature and examined thematically and comparatively. Findings show that a non-literalist, genre-sensitive reading of Scripture enables constructive engagement with evolutionary science without theological compromise. The study argues that Scripture and science address complementary dimensions of reality. It concludes that an integrative hermeneutic promotes intellectual coherence, theological humility, and pastoral relevance, and recommends its inclusion in seminary training and church teaching.