higher criticism

American  

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.

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higher criticism British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of higher criticism

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

I suppose that even Turner will presently begin to wane before "the higher criticism."

From Project Gutenberg

Until the discovery of new textual evidence the phenomena in Revelation must be treated by principles of the higher criticism, as pertaining to its history before publication.

From Project Gutenberg

He supplied guidance when it was much 863 needed as to the methods and results of the higher criticism.

From Project Gutenberg

He, too, would talk about the "higher criticism" and the latest definition of "inspiration."

From Project Gutenberg

Bearing, as it does, upon the life, history, and legends of the ancient nations of which it treats, controversial matter has been avoided, and the higher criticism left altogether aside.

From Project Gutenberg