From Milton S. Terrys Biblical hermenutics
Hermenutics is the science of interpretation. The word is usually applied to the explanation of written documents, and may therefore be more specifically designed as the science of interpretation of an authors language. This science assumes that there are divers modes of thought and ambiguities of expression among men, and, accordingly, it aims to remove the supposable differences between a writer and his readers, so that the meaning of the one may be truly and accurately apprehended by the others.
It is common to distinguish between*general* and special Hermenutics. General hermenutics is devoted to the general principles which are applicable to the interpretation of all languages and writing. It may appropriately take cognizance of the logical operations of the Human mind, and the philosophy of human speech. Special hermenutics is devoted rather to the explanation of particular books and classes of writings. Thus, historical, poetical, philosophical and prophetical writings differ from each other in numerous particulars, and each class requires for its proper exposition of the application of principles and methods adapted to its own peculiar character and style. Special hermenutics, according to Cellerier, is a science practical and almost empirical, and searches after rules and solutions; wile General Hermenutics is methodical and Philosophical, and searches for principles and methods.
People who join this site really need a clear understanding of what hermenutics are. Of course you have a page with the rules, but am not sure if it is clear or concise enough for an average John like me. After reading this Im up to 99% on understanding what Hermenutics are. Wether the understanding will be conveyed in my future Q&A I doubt sincerely never the less the house is not finished yet.!
Definitely the wrong place to post this but sometimes rules are for breaking.
