Many believers consider the Bible to be divinely inspired. However, how they understand that inspiration and interpret the biblical text varies. It’s not uncommon for the book to contain a great deal of symbolism, figurative language and other code words that can be difficult to discern at first glance. Understanding these biblical meanings can help you gain a deeper understanding of Scripture and better grasp its spiritual message for your life.
Numbers in the Bible often carry significant meaning. For example, the number 666 is a biblical warning against the Antichrist. Other numbers have more obvious significance: For example, the Bible mentions the circumference of the New Jerusalem at 12,000 furlongs and walls that are 144 cubits high (Revelation 21:10-21). The number 30 is also important in the Bible: It’s the age that men enter military service and the age when Levites begin their priestly duties (1 Samuel 8:17).
Certain words appear only once in the Bible: These include “reverend” (2 Timothy 1:15), “grandmother” (2 Corinthians 3:1), and “eternity” (Isaiah 57:15). These are biblical symbols of a special significance.
A biblical symbol of a powerful godlike figure is the lion. A lion is a fierce and majestic creature that possesses the strength to overtake its prey. The Bible compares the power of God, Jesus and the prophets to that of a lion. It also describes a lion as the protector of widows and orphans.
Other biblical symbols of a strong and protective nature are dogs, lambs, and eagles. Dogs in Bible times were not cherished family pets; they were wild, scavenging animals. When Jesus spoke of “the dogs” in Matthew 15 he was referring to non-Jews, whom he referred to as mongrels.
The biblical books were composed over a period of 1600 years. The living conditions of the writers – nomadic herdsmen, townspeople, established monarchs, exiled people, courtly scholars – varied enormously.
The fact that the biblical texts are so diverse makes it all the more remarkable that they have one theme in common: mankind’s redemption from sin through Jesus Christ. This common theme is the key to understanding biblical meanings. To understand these meaningful truths, you need to understand the original intent of the biblical authors. Without this knowledge, you’re likely to end up with a weak interpretation that skims the surface of the deeper truths in Scripture. You need to analyze the social context of the writers, and responsibly apply biblical meanings in your own lives. You can use this information to guide you in your daily interactions with others and how you respond to the world’s problems. It will also help you better appreciate the beauty of the biblical messages of love, forgiveness and hope. These powerful truths, enhanced by religious symbolism, are meant to be read and embraced by those who seek them out with the help of the Holy Spirit. By embracing biblical meanings, you can become a more effective disciple of Jesus Christ.