Polyvalent

As you can see, this is a word normally used in science. One of the books I used for research and an excerpt included the word, although obviously in a different context. So, I need to give a more general definition that works with her usage:

Polyvalent (adj.): Having multiple meanings, applications, or interpretations at the same time; open-ended.

Honestly, it’s something we need to watch out for in many Biblical passages. It’s easy for us to read something, see the point it’s trying to make, and then move on.

However, if we stopped for a moment, we might realize that the one point of view, one option, one scenario, one whatever that was given – is not a complete list. Then, we can come to conclusions that aren’t valid.

Here’s a short description of the book that says something about the issues of Polyvalence in the Bible:

In The Power of Equivocation Amy Kalmanofsky addresses the Bible’s inherent complexity as well as the complexity of those who seek to read the Bible critically, generously, and honestly. The Bible invites what Kalmanofsky identifies as equivocal readings–readings that do not reach neat conclusions related to ideology or character. Kalmanofsky demonstrates the Bible’s complicated artistry through her close readings of six biblical narratives that feature women.