ABSTRACT
Preface (5/2) Our aim, therefore, in this book, is, together with the assistance of the Lord God of all, not to omit anything that others find difficult [to grasp] when interpreting the words [of Scripture]. Nor will we spend time on any reading that one perchance finds to be evident. Nor do we repeat or imitate the error of the sophist Asterius,1 who, so it seems, wants to be more honored than to enlighten in his book, where he delights in having written reams about this subject. But he did not realize that he was not providing his reader with any help for an accurate reading of the Gospel, because he spent time only on what is evident, while stretching out what he was saying in a skillful way but at excessive length. In every chapter where we offer our interpretations, we strive not to draw out our comments by adding superfluous words. [The task] of a commentator at this point is to consider, as much as one can, those passages that most find difficult to interpret, whereas a preacher will speak about things that are clear, though he may sometimes find some superfluous matters useful. Yet when explaining his [position], he ought, nevertheless, at the same time, to speak concisely, if his explanation cannot be made clearly without a lot of words. This is applicable when we come across verses that the deceitful heretics have corrupted through their sickly impiety. We are not reluctant to say so, since the one who is being talked about is clearly known to us, although we will be very careful in doing this. For it is the task of an interpreter, above all one who diligently explains
[the text], not merely to speak thus with authority but also to reject any opinion opposed to his words. I will, therefore, first state my own understanding of the entire book; then with God’s power, I will proceed to explain my words.
