Ancient Method of Scriptural Study

PaRDeS is a traditional Jewish method of interpreting the Bible. It is a profound and powerful system of learning the Scriptures and offers “anchoring” system of interpretation.

The term "PaRDeS" is actually an acronym formed from four Hebrew words, each representing a different level of interpretation:

1. Peshat (פְּשָׁט) – Literal or Simple Meaning
   Peshat refers to the straightforward, plain meaning of the text. This is the simple interpretation you would derive by reading the words in their most basic sense, without looking for any hidden or deeper meanings. Most of Biblical teaching is done on this level, with great results to the hearers.

2. Remez (רֶמֶז) – Hint or Allusions Meaning
   Remez refers to a hinting of another story. This level seeks out allusions for deeper meanings that go beyond the simple literal meaning. It often involves looking for allusions to phrasings or word combinations within other Biblical texts. (such as Jesus hinting at earlier Biblical passages giving the audience fuller meaning to His dialogue.

3. Derash (דְּרַשׁ) – Homiletic or Comparative Meaning
   Derash involves a more expansive, comparative interpretation. This level draws connections between different parts of the Bible, using former commentary to expound upon the moral and ethical teachings derived from the text. It often relies on past teaching methods, which seek to explain and explore the deeper layers of the Bible. In the way, the Remez of a passage is like a hyperlink on a webpage and the page linked to becomes the Derash for deeper study and layers.

4. Sod (סוֹד) – Mystical or Secret Meaning
   Sod refers to the mystical or hidden meaning of the text. This level often deals with the Kabbalistic dimensions of Scripture, often touching upon profound spiritual revelations that are only accessible through the inspiration of God.

   One Final Note

   A final caveat to this method of Scriptural study and interpretation. Working your way through a passage, the reader should always begin with Peshat level first and proceed from there. With understanding the other levels should never contradict the plain meaning. For example: A Sod revelation from the Lord of a passage would never be in direct contradiction to the Peshat level meaning.