Understanding the Scriptures “Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures”  Luke 24: 45 What do we need to understand the meaning of the Scriptures? Do we need to learn the original languages of the Scriptures – Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek? Is it based on the knowledge of the biblical background, and our ability to use Bible dictionaries or our understanding of recent scholarly discussions? Of course, these help to some extent in our understanding. But what makes us apply the Scriptures to our context and our situation? What makes us feel that these words are written for us and for our lives? Or should we rephrase the question and ask WHO helps in this process.  The Jews of Jesus’ time studied the Scriptures from their childhood. They had to memorise the Laws of Moses and keep in mind the large portions of Prophets and Writings. They always remembered their history through their annual festivals. In this way, even an average Jew was aware of what was writt...