Prooftext
{{Short description|Passage of scripture presented as proof for a theological doctrine, belief, or principle}}
{{for|the academic journal|Prooftexts (journal)}}
In biblical interpretation, a proof text is a passage of scripture presented as proof for a theological doctrine, belief, or principle.{{Cite web|url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proof+text|title=Definition of PROOF TEXT|website=www.merriam-webster.com|language=en|access-date=2019-09-19}} Prooftexting (sometimes "proof-texting" or "proof texting") is the practice of using quotations from a document, either for the purpose of exegesis, or to establish a proposition in eisegesis (introducing one's own presuppositions, agendas, or biases). Such quotes may not accurately reflect the original intent of the author,"The Use of a Doctrinal Catechism in Sunday-School Instruction: A Symposium", Jesse L. Hurlbut et al; The Biblical World, Vol. 16, No. 3 (Sept 1900); {{jstor|3136493}} and a document quoted in such a manner, when read as a whole, may not support the proposition for which it was cited.{{cite web|author=|url=http://covenantoflove.net/reformed-theology-theology/sola-scriptura-reformed-theology-theology/problem-with-proof-texting/ |title=Problem with Proof-Texting |publisher=Covenant of Love |date=2010-03-24 |accessdate=2013-11-14}}{{cite web|url=http://carlsweatman.wordpress.com/2010/08/04/problems-with-proof-texting-1/ |title=problems with proof-texting (1)|work= Peripatetic Learning |publisher=Carlsweatman.wordpress.com |date=2010-08-04 |accessdate=2013-11-14}}{{cite web|url=http://www.mainsailministries.org/joomla16/index.php/q-a-a-god-bible-theology-culture/31-is-bible-verse-proof-texting-problematic |title=Is Bible Verse Proof-Texting Problematic? |publisher=Mainsailministries.org |date= |accessdate=2013-11-14}}{{cite web|last=McDonough |first=Kathy |url=http://www.recoveringgrace.org/2012/07/the-subtle-power-of-spiritual-abuse-chapter-7-abuse-and-scripture/ |title=The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse, Chapter 7: Abuse and Scripture |publisher=Recovering Grace |date=2012-07-19 |accessdate=2013-11-14}} The term has currency primarily in theological and exegetical circles.