“We are all mediators, translators.” ~Jacques Derrida
To comment on the short and decontextualized quote I am reminded of the statement made by the teacher of Ecclesiastes, “Is there a thing of which it is said, “See this is new?” It has already been said in the ages before us.” (Ecclesiastes 1:10) This is the first basis upon which Derrida’s assertion can be understood; for all of the work of study and instruction is but the interpretation of what already exists—either in reaction, affirmation, or meditation of it, but in any case certainly derivative in one way or another. A second basis upon which the assertion (that we are but mediators and translators) rest is in the fact that no pure transmission of thought exists: the moment our words are expressed either in speech, art or writing, it is for the hearer, viewer, or reader to translate and interpret through their own individual understanding.
To be sure, there is a poignant sense of uncertainty that can be experienced in response to such a statement; if it is detached from any affirmation of a certainty to be interpreted there would vanish any reason to hold or argue anything. Still, as a Christian and as one who has been given the responsibility of a teacher in matters of biblical instruction there is much for me to consider in this. There is a reason why Paul said to Timothy, “Not many should teach since those who teach will be held to higher account,” and “pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching, for in it you will ensure salvation both for yourself as well as those who hear you.” The fact of the matter is that the best I have to offer is not original thought but mediation and interpretive translation of what I perceive; this is furthermore derived from many layers of the mediation and translation of others replete in the traditions, narratives, and sources which surround me. For my own part, this is an unavoidable call to humility before those I teach as one who is himself searching and far from the possession of all answers; but above all else, it is the call to humility before the God of all truth apart from whom I can be certain of nothing.
In a Mirror Dimly 