The Bible is a rich source of literary devices. These devices help illuminate difficult concepts so readers can broaden their understanding. Symbolism and metaphors are two types of literary devices heavily used in the Bible.
Let’s explore 17 symbols and metaphors in the Bible and deduce their meanings to better understand the Scripture.
Bread of Life
The passage from John 6:35, which reads, “I am the bread of life,” may confuse those who are new to reading scriptures, especially when taken literally. Jesus used the bread of life metaphor to describe His purpose, which is to give life and nourish us spiritually, just like bread nourishes our body.
Light of the World
Jesus also declared Himself as the “light of the world.” (John 8:12). He used this metaphor to describe His role in illuminating our way of life and truth. He chases away the darkness so we can walk a straight path towards God.
Door of the Sheep
Jesus made another declaration in John 10:7, saying, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.” Let us unpack the multiple layers of this metaphor. Sheep represents humanity – helpless animals who are dependent on their shepherd for guidance and protection. The door represents Jesus – and by this door, He means the door to the sheepfold, the resting place for the sheep. Only through Him can we enter the place of protection and rest.
The Lord is My Shepherd
And speaking of sheep, another Bible verse that references sheep is Psalm 23:1. It uses the analogy of a shepherd to describe God’s guidance and care for His people. This verse describes how God leads, protects, and provides for us as a shepherd does for their flock.
The Clay and the Potter
“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” – Isaiah 64:8
This beautiful verse uses metaphor to describe how we are molded by God. It illustrates His role in shaping and guiding our lives just as a potter carefully molds and forms clay into a beautiful piece of art.
The Vine and the Branches
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5
John 15:5 is another Bible verse that uses a metaphor to describe Jesus’ relationship with His disciples. The vine (Jesus) provides the branches (His disciples) with nourishment and support so they can grow and bear fruit.
The Lamb of God
In ancient Israel, lambs were killed as an annual sacrifice, signifying the Passover, a Jewish tradition. In John 1:29, John referenced Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” The lamb symbolizes Jesus, who was sacrificed so that our sins may be forgiven.
The Dove
“Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.” – Mark 1:10
Doves are often depicted as symbols of peace and purity. In Mark 1:10, the Holy Spirit is likened to a dove, which implies a sense of divine purity and gentle presence.
A Consuming Fire
“For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.” – Deuteronomy 4:24
The Bible often likens fire to rage, anger, and God’s righteous judgment. In Deuteronomy 4:24, He was called “a consuming fire.” This describes God’s ability to destroy those who willfully oppose Him.
Fountain of Life
When someone drinks from the fountain of life, they consume a continuous source of sustenance and life. The metaphor “fountain of life” describes Jesus’ teachings as an undying source of spiritual nourishment and eternal life.
God’s Vineyard
“Now I will tell you what I am going to do to my vineyard: I will take away its hedge, and it will be destroyed; I will break down its wall, and it will be trampled.” – Isaiah 5:5
This is God’s warning to Israel, which He called His vineyard. He is practically describing its impending destruction by removing its protective surrounding (hedge).
The Lion
“Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” – Revelation 5:5
Revelation 5:5 refers to Jesus as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. Lions are symbols of strength and royalty, which is a fitting description of the Son of God.
The Armor of God
The armor of God symbolizes our spiritual armor that would protect us against evil. This metaphorical phrase is taken from Ephesians 6:10-18, which tells us to be prepared in moments of spiritual warfare.
The Fig Tree
Matthew 21:18-22 tells a story about Jesus cursing a fig tree. The fig tree symbolizes Israel and its inability to produce fruits of righteousness. He used this metaphor to show us the consequences of unfaithfulness and disobedience and to encourage us to live a righteous life.
The Bride
The bride referred to in Revelation 19:7-9 is the Church, and Jesus is the groom. This symbolizes the intimate relationship between God and the Church (His followers). It serves as a reminder of the Church’s mission to remain faithful and be always prepared for the coming of its Savior.
The Cross
Then He said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” – Luke 9:23
The cross is often a symbol of sacrifice and suffering. In Luke 9:23, Jesus told His followers to take up their cross daily, which suggests that discipleship requires a willingness to endure hardships for the sake of following Christ.
The Bright Morning Star
“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” – Revelation 22:16
In this verse, Jesus identifies Himself as “the bright morning star.” Just as a morning star can set the day’s mood and bring light to the day, Jesus also brings joy to the world.
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Vidivir is a dedicated high school teacher and a loving mother of three. With over a decade of experience as a blogger and article writer, she has honed her craft in storytelling. As a devoted church lector and servant of God, she combines her passion for writing with her faith, aiming to inspire others through her words.