The presence of learned advisors who explain and expound on the scriptures is a must for the community to perpetuate the right cult and traditions
Faribourz Nariman
Most sacred scriptures were, at one time, pre-literary oral traditions. It was much later that they were put in writing, the texts being on parchment, paper, etc. With the spread of literacy, even commentaries on sacred texts were set down. Today, every Hindu, Jew, Christian or Muslim who knows the language of his scripture will be able to read a manuscript or a printed text, but not necessarily understand its contents. Such a situation necessitates exegesis (an explanation and interpretation). Those who are qualified to expound/interpret the scriptures are known as exegetes.
Historically speaking, the Book of Nehemiah viii.8 in the......