Exegesis

"An explanation or critical interpretation of a text". How the written word is interpreted is the key to society and civilization.  Most do not venture to consciously think about different points of view which is what exegesis essentially entails.

All institutions including companies, countries, churches, marriage... are based on the written word. We call them contracts, scripture, laws, constitution...  We interpret the words often subconsciously, resigning ourselves to prejudices and "the norm". It depends on context, psychology and influence.

St. Peter's basilica was built during an age of enlightenment in Europe, when the printing press democratized texts, so more and more people could consider the written word about everything. Facts became information, knowledge and could be distributed on paper.

The technology to build the dome, which existed many years before that in Istanbul (Constantinople) was updated and the beautiful monument to the catholic faith was made. Michelangelo and company wanted the wonder of the architecture to amaze close up. But over the years, the entrance was pushed further and further from the dome so the best part of structure is not really visible even in the court yard. At the new entrance to the plaza (where the picture was taken) the dome is visible far away.

It is a pity that most people read words without any conscious exegesis. Mind you the interpretation occurs even if it is completely subconscious. It is like they prefer to view a truth from afar. Truth (like the dome of St Peter's basilica) can become monuments we view from afar, resigning to the point of view imposed on us by the powerful.

But unlike St Peters, we can seek to find new vantage points on any text just by thinking. I wonder why so many refuse to do so.