RT Article T1 Paulus se "godsdienspatroon" en die bepaling van verwysing JF Hervormde teologiese studies VO 42 IS 2 SP 350 OP 377 A1 Engelbrecht, E. LA Afrikaans YR 1986 UL https://ixtheo.de/Record/1946129372 AB Paul's 'pattern of religion' and the determination of reference The interpretation of meaning in a Pauline text starts in the micro-context and proceeds via the macro-structure of the letter to Paul's pattern of religion. This implies a synchronic approach. It is argued that a pattern of religion thus constructed functions as a method of control in establishing an interpretation of meaning. Pattern of religion consists of that which is basic to Pauline thinking and the first phase surface motives which are generated by this basic pattern of belief. The study concludes that the interpretation of meaning in Paul should take note of the uniqueness of Paul's thinking. The method developed is pointed by an interpretation of the meaning of eleos in Romans 15:9. K1 Sociology and Ethics K1 Ancient Semitic and Classical Languages K1 Philosophy K1 Aspects of Religious Studies K1 Practical Theology K1 Ministers of Religion K1 Scholars K1 Philosophers K1 Theologians K1 Netherdutch Reformed Church K1 Theology DO 10.4102/hts.v42i2.2164