On interpretations and sub-interpretations (In the hermeneutics of the pandemic)

Abstract

The article presents hermeneutics as a way of interpreting reality and learning from historical events, taking the COVID-19 pandemic as its point of reference. It draws on various philosophical and religious perspectives, including the Jewish method of Pardes, to illustrate different levels of interpretation. It also questions humanity’s ability to learn from illness and suffering in the face of persistent injustice, consumerism, and environmental degradation. Finally, it proposes a hermeneutics of history that transforms experience into learning, responsibility, and freedom, fostering a deeper understanding of the relationship between human beings, nature, culture, religion, and collective memory.