The New Testament and integral ecology: Charting a path for interpretation

This article outlines a novel approach to the interpretation of the New Testament from the perspective of integral ecology, thereby addressing an identified lacuna in the systematic application of ecological conceptual framework to the biblical corpus. Informed by recent eco-hermeneutical works, the article outlines a methodology for integral interpretation, which facilitates a reading of biblical texts that connects environmental concerns with their concomitant social, economic, and ethical dimensions, and acknowledges the interconnectedness of all creation. Analysis undertaken using this specified methodology indicates that selected New Testament passages reveal a significant call to stewardship and suggests that the overarching message of the New Testament is consonant with the principles of integral ecology, particularly in its social emphases. This study demonstrates the contribution of such an approach to the development of biblical ecotheology by proposing a novel interpretive tool that augments existing hermeneutical strategies. Whilst acknowledging the ancient context of the texts and the challenges presented by the predominant focus on the God-human relationship within the New Testament, the research underscores the viability and fruitfulness of the integral method in discerning ecological meaning and in providing an impetus for ecological conversion.