higher criticism

noun

1. the study of the Bible having as its object the establishment of such facts as authorship and date of composition, as well as determination of a basis for exegesis.

higher criticism

noun

1. See lower criticism
   the use of scientific techniques of literary criticism to establish the sources of the books of the Bible Compare lower criticism

Word History and Origins

Origin of higher criticism¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

I claim that it contains many errors of fact, and the Higher Criticism supports the claim; as we shall see.

From Project Gutenberg

From this department he graduated into the field of the higher criticism.

From Project Gutenberg

Higher Criticism shows its teeth in connection with such definite statements which introduce the power of God.

From Project Gutenberg

What, then, should be the attitude of lovers of truth toward the higher criticism of the Bible?

From Project Gutenberg

So that not all that has been done in the name of the higher criticism has been according to scientific method.

From Project Gutenberg