Galileo Galilei’s Exegetical Proposal

Abstract

This paper analyzes Galileo Galilei’s exegetical approach and its impact within the context of the dialogue between science and theology. The study first examines Galilean scientific realism and his conviction that sensory experience and demonstrations allow us to arrive at truths about nature. It then addresses the tension between his defense of a disciplinary separation and his own foray into biblical interpretation.

It is argued that Galileo proposed a reversal of the traditional hierarchy of disciplines, granting scientific conclusions a decisive role in the interpretation of biblical passages related to nature. Within this framework, accommodationism constitutes his primary hermeneutical strategy. The case of Joshua 10 illustrates how he applied this method to resolve the apparent incompatibility between the biblical text and Copernican astronomy. Finally, and as the article’s main message, the article highlights the inevitable role of philosophy in the dialogue between science and theology.