Taken out of context, calling a pregnant woman ugly seems hurtful, but in light of the true meaning it becomes apparent that the exact opposite is true. I've recently been studying Biblical interpretation, and the standout guideline for the most correct interpretation of scripture is to find the author's original meaning within the historical, literary, and proper grammatical context. The Bible is full of poetry, historical narratives, parables and epistles (personal letters) written by about 40 authors over a span of 1600 years. Gibbs (2004) explains, "It is so large and the content so varied that any bright heretic can find one verse among the thousands of verses to support his or her preconceived belief" (98). He goes on to say that nothing in the Bible can mean something in isolation that it doesn't mean in the wider context.
Context is everything in language and culture learning, much like Biblical interpretation. When communication breaks down or there are situational misunderstandings, the first step is to look at the context. Seek to understanding the deeper meaning, the historical or cultural significance, and keep an open mind to ensure full understanding. I may have been extra round, bloated and blotchy at eight months pregnant, but my friends weren't calling me ugly; in their own way they were protecting me.
Haa Gogngal (until next time)!
*Gibbs, Carl B. 2004. Principles of Biblical Interpretation. Springfield, MO: Global University.
