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Sunday, November 29, 2015

The Bible: Blend of Literal and Figurative Deeper Meanings

Figurative language is often used in the Bible mixed in with the literal to deepen our understanding. The parables of Jesus are a prime example. Other examples are more sweeping, such as the biblical story of Noah's Ark. It is a classical mixture of literal and figurative elements. Yes, there was a physical occurrence of flood waters rising that was a tremendously memorable event. That there was a Flood that covered all of the Earth is, however, a figurative event written to communicate spiritual knowledge (as are all scriptures). The Ark, too, has a symbolic meaning. To take the story of Noah's Ark only in its literal sense is to relegate it to being only a children's bible story. 

Remember that the Book of Proverbs is figurative speech illustrating deeper meanings. To fail to appreciate these deeper spiritual realities is to relegate ones self to religious fundamentalism and reject your inner Christ and the message that the holy Jesus Christ gave.
Note: Inner deeper meanings are like the layers of an onion. Remove one layer and another awaits you.



Google: 
Hidden Meanings Bible


2 Corinthians 3:15 "But even unto this day when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when they shall turn to the Lord the vail shall be taken away."
The Bible here clearly says that when people read the Old Testament they do not understand it because they read it literally, and it is symbolic.