exegete

Definition

A person skilled in exegesis; an interpreter of texts, difficult passages, law, oracles, and similar obscure or esoteric sources.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἐξηγητής (exēgētḗs, “expounder, interpreter”).

Example Sentences

• "A text that could not speak to the present was dead, and the exegete had a duty to revive it."
• "In Plato's state all three exegetes will be selected by Apollo. This is contrary to the practice of Hellenistic times, according to the evidence so ably marshaled by Oliver, when only two of the exegetes were named by the oracle."
• "Theophrastus' "superstitious man" finds that a mouse has gnawed a hole in his meal sack and, obviously thinking it a portent, consults the exegete as to what he shall do... The exegete tells him, according to Theophrastus, to take the sack to a leather shop and have it mended. If this is drawn from life, it indicates that the exegetes discharged their functions with humour and common sense."