“Exit” vs. “I see”

I thought I had made this joke in public before, but I can’t find it (don’t worry, it’s geeky):

Exegesis, they say, is the interpretation of a text in such a way that it draws out its proper meaning.  Eisegesis is the interpretation of a text in such a way that you cram into it something that isn’t even there.  I guess that’s fine, but what I have to ask is why, if that’s the case, why does “exegesis” sound so much like “exit Jesus” and “eisegesis” sounds so much like “I see Jesus”?  Shouldn’t it be the other way around?

Author: KB French

Formerly many things, including theology student, mime, jr. high Latin teacher, and Army logistics officer. Currently in the National Guard, and employed as a civilian... somewhere View all posts by KB French