Interpreting Scripture: Literal and Allegorical Truths in Divine Creation

William W. Collins
https://essays.williamwcollins.com

The belief that God is the Creator of all existence naturally leads to the understanding that the divine design is reflected in the architecture of the universe. If one accepts this premise, it becomes essential to reconcile scripture with observable reality. In this reconciliation, we must also acknowledge our ability to comprehend allegory, a literary form that scripture frequently employs.

Scripture contains a rich tapestry of genres, including history, poetry, prophecy, and allegory. Recognizing this diversity is crucial when interpreting the Bible, as it helps us discern when a passage should be understood literally and when it invites a more allegorical or metaphorical reading. This balance is especially important when considering books like Daniel and Revelation, which are well-known for their symbolic and allegorical content. Even Christ Himself frequently used parables—stories rich in allegory—to convey deeper spiritual truths.

Genesis: A Case for Allegory

The question of whether Genesis, particularly the early chapters, should be interpreted as allegory is a topic of long-standing debate. Some hold to a literal interpretation, viewing it as a historical account of creation, while others see it as an allegorical narrative that conveys foundational spiritual truths.

1. The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil

Literal Interpretation: In a literal reading, the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil is understood as a physical tree planted in the Garden of Eden. It is described as bearing fruit that, when eaten, imparts the knowledge of good and evil. The literal act of Adam and Eve eating the fruit is seen as the direct cause of the fall of humanity, introducing sin and death into the world.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil represents the moral autonomy granted to humanity—the ability to discern and choose between good and evil. This tree becomes a powerful symbol of free will and the human condition. Eating from this tree allegorically signifies the moment when humanity chose to assert its own will over God's, leading to a rupture in the relationship between God and man. The act of eating the fruit represents the broader concept of moral rebellion, an allegory for the spiritual and existential consequences of choosing to live apart from divine guidance.

2. Adam and Eve

Literal Interpretation: In a literal sense, Adam and Eve are viewed as the first humans created by God, the progenitors of the entire human race. The narrative in Genesis describes their creation, life in the Garden of Eden, and eventual disobedience by eating the forbidden fruit, leading to their expulsion from the Garden. This literal interpretation grounds the belief in a historical Adam and Eve, whose actions have direct theological implications for the doctrine of original sin.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, Adam and Eve can be seen as archetypes of humanity. The name "Adam" is derived from the Hebrew word for "man" or "humankind," while "Eve" is associated with "life" or "living." In this reading, they represent all of humanity—Adam as the embodiment of mankind and Eve as the life-giver or the source of human lineage. Their story is a symbolic exploration of human nature, the complexities of human relationships, the struggle with temptation, and the consequences of disobedience to God. Adam and Eve's expulsion from Eden can be viewed allegorically as the existential journey of all humans—leaving behind a state of innocence and encountering the harsh realities of life.

3. The Serpent

Literal Interpretation: In a literal interpretation, the serpent in the Garden of Eden is understood as an actual talking snake that tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. This creature is often associated with Satan, who is believed to have taken the form of a serpent to deceive humanity and cause the fall.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, the serpent represents more than just a physical animal. It is a symbol of temptation, deceit, and the presence of evil in the world. The serpent's role in the narrative can be seen as an allegory for the subtle and insidious ways that evil can enter human life, tempting individuals away from God's will. The serpent's cunning nature and persuasive words may represent the internal and external forces that lead people to doubt and ultimately disobey divine commands. In this allegorical reading, the serpent's actions reveal deeper truths about the nature of sin and the human propensity to choose self-interest over obedience to God.

4. The Six Days of Creation

Literal Interpretation: A literal interpretation of Genesis 1 sees the six days of creation as a sequential, chronological account of how God created the universe. Each day corresponds to a 24-hour period during which specific aspects of the world were brought into existence, culminating in the creation of humanity on the sixth day and God's rest on the seventh.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, the six days of creation can be understood as symbolic representations of stages or phases in God's creative process, rather than literal 24-hour periods. This interpretation suggests that the "days" may represent broader epochs or periods of time, each characterized by specific creative acts that reveal God's intentionality and order in bringing the universe into existence. The sequence of creation days may symbolize the unfolding of divine purpose and the establishment of cosmic order, with each "day" representing a step in the progression from chaos to order, from void to life. This allegory can also highlight the structure and harmony of creation, pointing to the balance and interdependence of all created things.

5. The Flood

Literal Interpretation: The literal interpretation of the flood narrative in Genesis describes a global deluge that covered the entire earth, wiping out all life except for Noah, his family, and the animals they brought aboard the ark. This event is seen as a historical and divine judgment against human wickedness, with the ark serving as the means of salvation for the righteous.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, the flood can be seen as a powerful symbol of purification, renewal, and divine judgment. The waters of the flood may represent the overwhelming forces of chaos and destruction that are unleashed when humanity strays too far from divine order. The ark, in this interpretation, symbolizes salvation, refuge, and the preservation of life amidst the forces of chaos. Noah's role as the builder of the ark and the one who hears and obeys God's command can be seen as an allegory for the righteous individual who listens to divine wisdom and is saved from the consequences of widespread corruption. The flood narrative, when viewed allegorically, communicates themes of judgment, mercy, and the possibility of new beginnings after a period of moral and spiritual cleansing.

6. The Tower of Babel

Literal Interpretation: In a literal interpretation, the Tower of Babel is understood as a physical structure built by the people of Babel (Babylonia) with the intent of reaching the heavens. According to Genesis 11, God intervenes to stop the construction by confusing their language, causing them to be scattered across the earth. This event is seen as the historical origin of the diversity of languages in the world.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, the Tower of Babel represents human pride, ambition, and the desire to assert independence from God. The tower itself symbolizes humanity's attempt to reach divine status through its own efforts, without reliance on God. The confusion of languages can be seen as an allegory for the breakdown of communication and community when humanity seeks to elevate itself above divine authority. The scattering of people across the earth serves as a metaphor for the consequences of hubris—division, disunity, and the loss of a unified purpose. This story illustrates the futility of human endeavors that are driven by pride and self-glorification, rather than submission to God’s will.

7. Abraham’s Sacrifice of Isaac

Literal Interpretation: In a literal reading, Genesis 22 recounts the story of God commanding Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as a test of faith. Abraham prepares to obey, but at the last moment, God intervenes, providing a ram to sacrifice in Isaac’s place. This event is seen as a literal historical test of Abraham's faith and obedience to God.
Allegorical Interpretation: Allegorically, the story of Abraham’s sacrifice of Isaac is not only a profound representation of faith, obedience, and the nature of sacrifice, but it also serves as a powerful foreshadowing of God’s ultimate plan for humanity—the sacrifice of His own Son, Jesus Christ.

The Ultimate Test of Faith:
Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac, his beloved son, represents the highest level of faith and trust in God. In this allegory, Isaac embodies the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham—the promise of descendants as numerous as the stars, and the continuation of his lineage through which all nations would be blessed. The command to sacrifice Isaac seems to contradict these promises, yet Abraham's readiness to comply demonstrates his unwavering belief that God’s purposes are just and righteous, even when they seem incomprehensible to human reasoning.

The Concept of Substitutionary Sacrifice:
The ram that God provides as a substitute for Isaac is rich with symbolic meaning. It prefigures the concept of substitutionary atonement, where an innocent life is offered in place of the one who deserves death. This theme echoes throughout the Bible, culminating in the New Testament with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Just as the ram takes Isaac’s place on the altar, Christ is seen as the "Lamb of God" who takes away the sins of the world through His death on the cross. In this sense, Isaac’s near-sacrifice becomes an allegory for the greater sacrifice that God Himself would make, offering His own Son as a substitute for the sins of humanity.

Foreshadowing of God’s Sacrifice of His Son:
The parallels between the story of Abraham and Isaac and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ are striking and deeply significant in Christian theology. Isaac, as the long-awaited son of Abraham, prefigures Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah. Both Isaac and Jesus are described as beloved sons, and both carry the wood upon which they are to be sacrificed—Isaac with the wood for the burnt offering, and Jesus with the cross.

Moreover, the location of the event is traditionally believed to be Mount Moriah, which later becomes associated with the region of Jerusalem, where Jesus would eventually be crucified. This geographic connection adds another layer to the allegory, suggesting that the events in Genesis were a divine foreshadowing of the redemption that would be offered through Christ.

The Ram as a Symbol of Divine Provision:
The provision of the ram at the crucial moment signifies God’s mercy and grace. It shows that while God may test the faith of His followers, He ultimately provides a means of salvation. This act of provision not only saves Isaac but also preserves the line through which Jesus would come, further connecting the narrative to God’s larger plan for redemption.

A Divine Parallel:
Where Abraham is willing to offer his son but is spared from doing so, God the Father actually goes through with the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. This creates a profound parallel: Abraham's story highlights human obedience and faith, while God’s sacrifice of Jesus emphasizes divine love and grace. Through this lens, the story of Isaac becomes a foreshadowing of the Gospel, where the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice Isaac mirrors God’s willingness to sacrifice His own Son for the salvation of humanity.

The Theme of Resurrection:
Another significant allegorical aspect is the theme of resurrection. Hebrews 11:17-19 in the New Testament reflects on this event, noting that Abraham believed God could raise Isaac from the dead if necessary. In a sense, Isaac is "resurrected" when the ram takes his place. This prefigures the actual resurrection of Jesus, who, after being sacrificed, is raised from the dead, conquering sin and death. The near-sacrifice of Isaac, followed by his "restoration" to life, becomes an allegorical precursor to the death and resurrection of Christ, which is central to Christian belief.

The Role of Allegory in Scripture

Understanding that scripture utilizes allegory does not undermine its truth but rather enriches our understanding of the divine message. Allegory allows for the communication of truths that transcend specific historical contexts, making them universally applicable. The Psalms and Proverbs, for instance, frequently employ metaphorical language to express profound spiritual and moral truths.

Moreover, the very nature of God's creation—complex, ordered, and imbued with meaning—often reflects and reinforces the truths found in scripture. This encourages us to approach scripture with both humility and openness, recognizing that both literal and allegorical interpretations have their place in revealing God's truth.

Conclusion: The Balance of Literal and Allegorical Interpretation

In conclusion, the interpretation of scripture requires careful consideration of both literal and allegorical meanings. Whether in Genesis or other parts of the Bible, the key is to seek the intended message of the text, guided by the context, genre, and theological purpose. As we observe the world that God has created, we are nudged to think allegorically, particularly when scripture itself leads us in that direction.

Thus, while we must be cautious in claiming a purely literal interpretation of every scriptural passage, we must also be open to the profound spiritual insights that allegory can provide. In doing so, we align our understanding with both the observable realities of God's creation and the rich, multifaceted truths conveyed in His Word.

William W. Collins
https://essays.williamwcollins.com

Search This Blog

Essays: William Collins