remez

Jewish hermeneutics

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July 13, 2026

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In Jewish hermeneutics, remez refers to an interpretive principle that signifies "hint" and encompasses typological or allegorical meanings. This method is one of four layers of interpretation, collectively known by the acronym PaRDeS (Paradise), which also includes peshat (literal meaning), derash (inferred meaning), and sod (mystical meaning). While peshat was often preferred for its straightforwardness, remez allowed for deeper, non-literal readings of biblical texts, becoming particularly favored by Kabbalists, or Jewish mystics, during the Middle Ages and early modern periods. These interpretive methods were crucial in reconciling apparent contradictions within scripture and establishing new legal and ethical frameworks within Judaism.12

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peshaṭ
…simultaneously in any given text: remez (meaning “hint,” in reference to typological or allegorical interpretations), derash (meaning “search,” in reference to biblical study according to the middot, or rules), and sod (meaning “secret,” or mystical interpretation). The first letters (PRDS) of these four words were first used in medieval Spain…
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…simultaneously in any given text: remez (meaning “hint,” in reference to typological or allegorical interpretations), derash (meaning “search,” in reference to biblical study according to the middot, or rules), and sod (meaning “secret,” or mystical interpretation). The first letters (PRDS) of these four words were first used in medieval Spain…
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