The word “hermeneutic” is often used to refer to a method or
style of interpretation commonly associated with the
interpretation of Scripture. No doubt there are any number of
hermeneutical methods a person can use when approaching
Scripture: hermeneutic of rationalism, historical critical
method, hermeneutic of trust, etc. Any person can, regardless of
personal belief, approach Scripture using any hermeneutic they
see fit to use. However, not ever hermeneutic is equal and not
ever hermeneutic is useful in fostering spiritual growth and
developing a deeper relationship with Christ. The Catholic
Church has never accepted many of the modern critical methods
and hermeneutics used in biblical interpretation and biblical
criticism in their totality; She has found them time and time
again useful but inadequate in being able to give a complete
interpretation of Scripture, for it is that each has their own
pitfalls and stumbling blocks, which more often results in an
emptying of meaning from Scripture than in a riche