The Scriptures were written by the Spirit of God, and have a meaning, not such only as is apparent at first sight, but also another, which escapes the notice of most. For those (words) which are written are the forms of certain mysteries, and the images of divine things. Respecting which there is one opinion throughout the whole Church, that the whole law is indeed spiritual; but that the spiritual meaning which the law conveys is not known to all, but to those only on whom the grace of the Holy Spirit is bestowed in the word of wisdom and knowledge. (From the preface)

Origen is almost certainly writing not so much of interpretation as insight, not hermeneutics but a sort of gnosticism.

How do we know? When I engage scripture there is a need to study its language, its origins, and especially its original context and audience. What was originally intended and why? How does the original context compare to my context? This is mostly an empirical task.

Scripture, poetry, and most literature requires more than the empirical. These demand an empathetic engagement. We must step outside ourselves and become part of the author's world.