Intertextuality refers to the phenomenon in Scriptures where one text alludes to, quotes from, or is similar to other passages. Tracing such quotations and allusions scholars gain insights into how theological concepts develop, and why so, across the spectrum of the various books and the periods they span. Intratextuality (also called innertextuality) on the other hand involves changes within the text itself, including, e.g., how its language or vocabulary is updated or explanatory glosses added to them.
A good example of intertextuality is Jn 1:51, Jesus said to the crownd, "Very truly I tell you, you will see 'heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." A reader familiar with her Bible will immediately think of another passage somewhere speaking of angels of God ascending and descending. There is, of course; Gen 28, in which it is recorded that Jacob, on leaving the land as he fled after cheating Esau of his birthright, had a dream in which he saw the angels of God ascending and descending on a ladder which reached up to heaven (v12). The question for the exegete is, therefore, why did Jesus use these same words for his statement to the people? Has He in mind some connection between Him and Jacob? What is the significance of this for Jesus's introduction of Himself to the crowd as the 'Son of Man' for John (this is the first time the title 'Son of Man' appears in John's Gospel). Intertextuality is, therefore, an idea rich in potential exegetical and theological insights.
©ALBERITH
031020lch