Interpreting Figurative Language in Scripture

The surrounding text, including verses, chapters, and even the whole book, that provides clues to the meaning of figurative language.

Examining the text closely and thoroughly, turning over every detail to find hidden meanings.

Praying for God's guidance and enlightenment while studying the scripture.

Always approaching Bible study with a fresh perspective and a heart full of love for God.

Looking for clues within the immediate text to understand the intended meaning of figurative language.

Looking beyond the immediate context for further clues, potentially in preceding or following chapters.

Getting into the hábito of reading the entire book to gain a comprehensive understanding of the context.

Putting in effort to read through longer books like Isaiah or Jeremiah, even if it takes multiple readings.

Reading the entire book or passage multiple times to gain a comprehensive understanding and observe connections between various parts.

Taking notes while reading to actively engage with the text, capturing key ideas, and facilitating recall.

Examining other passages in the Bible or related texts that shed light on the topic or verse being studied.

Analyzing the use of figurative language, like metaphors, similes, and imagery, to understand the intended message beyond literal interpretation.

Consulting dictionaries, glossaries, and lexical resources to understand the nuances of specific words and phrases within their context.

Ensuring that the interpretation of a passage aligns with the overall flow of thought, context, and other related verses.

Seeking confirmation from the Holy Spirit through prayer and reflection to ensure that the understanding gained is accurate and inspired by God.

Interpreting scripture literally whenever possible, recognizing that it often employs analogies or metaphors to convey spiritual truths.

Identifying the connection between a literal concept and its metaphorical or symbolic representation to understand the broader message.

The practice of using literal examples, like the behavior of a lion, to illustrate abstract concepts, such as the power of a nation.

The idea that God communicates in a way that is simple and accessible, not intended to confuse or deceive.

Reading the Bible as a servant of God, with a desire to understand and share His message faithfully.

Investing time and effort in understanding scripture as a form of sacrificial service to God.

Recognizing the importance of relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, but also being discerning about the opinions and interpretations of scholars.

Studying the historical context and background information to gain a deeper understanding of the text.

The surrounding text, including verses, chapters, and even the whole book, that provides clues to the meaning of figurative language.

The underlying meaning or feeling expressed in a passage, rather than just the literal words.

When a passage uses human characteristics, actions, or experiences to describe something that is not human, like God.

When a passage uses exaggerated or symbolic language to make a point, but shouldn't be taken literally.

The practice of interpreting the Bible through the lens of its original context, considering the culture and language of the time.

The meaning of words can change over time, so we need to consider their original meaning in the biblical context.

Recognizing that the literal meaning of a passage may not always be the intended meaning.

Sometimes a passage describes an event that happened literally, but other times the event is symbolic or a metaphor.

The Bible is a rich source of insight and instruction, and careful study can unlock its true meaning.

God's desire to communicate with humanity in a way that we can understand, using human metaphors and examples to explain spiritual truths.

We need to understand the cultural and historical context of the Bible to interpret it accurately.

The Greek language was the primary language of the New Testament, and understanding its words can clarify the Bible's meaning.

Interpreting the Bible with sensitivity and respect for its sacred nature.

The struggle between our sinful nature and the desire to follow God's law.

God's desire to communicate with us even through figurative language and symbolic events.

A figure of speech where something is described as something else, using words like 'like' or 'as'.

A figure of speech where something is directly compared to something else, without using 'like' or 'as'.

A figure of speech that exaggerates for emphasis or effect.

Using numbers with symbolic meaning, often conveying completeness or intensity.

Examining the words, phrases, and surrounding verses to understand the meaning of figurative language.

Analyzing the text and comparing it to other similar passages or stories, recognizing patterns.

Recognizing that authors write within a specific historical and cultural context, influencing the meaning of their words.

Recognizing that the Bible uses various literary genres, each with its own unique characteristics and styles.

Looking to other reputable scholars and their interpretations, building on their insights.

Studying all available translations and different versions of the Bible, understanding their nuances.

Remaining open-minded and considering all perspectives, even those different from our own.

Approaching scripture with a humble and respectful attitude, seeking to understand God's message.

Understanding that the Bible is not a science textbook, but a collection of inspired writings with a focus on spiritual truths.

Allowing the Bible to speak for itself, rather than imposing preconceived interpretations.

Using comparisons to explain something complex in simpler terms. It can involve using analogies, metaphors, or similes.

Understanding the meaning of a passage by examining surrounding text and using clues to interpret figurative language.

The passage of scripture is accurate and trustworthy, even if it might use figurative language.

The intended meaning of a passage may not always be a literal interpretation, especially when using figurative language.

Reading scriptures carefully for deeper understanding and looking for deeper meanings behind figurative language.

Looking at surrounding verses, chapters, and even the whole book to gain a comprehensive understanding of a passage.

Seeking guidance from God to understand scriptures, asking for clarity, wisdom, and deeper insights.

Using the Bible as a source of reliable information and teaching.

Understanding that God communicates through scriptures, and we need to interpret it diligently to grasp His message.

Looking for the deeper meaning behind words, especially when encountering figurative language.

Being aware of the author's intended meaning and purpose when interpreting scripture.

Considering different perspectives and interpretations of a scripture passage, acknowledging that there may be multiple viewpoints.

A story used to teach a moral or spiritual lesson, often with symbolic elements.