If you’re a fan of the Bible’s Book of Revelation, then you’ve probably wondered what the seven stars mentioned in chapter one, verse twenty represent. While some readers find this passage quite confusing, others feel that it’s a crucial part of understanding the whole book. So, what do the seven stars in Revelation symbolize exactly, and why are they so important? In this article, we’ll explore different interpretations of the meaning behind this biblical imagery.
One interpretation of the seven stars in Revelation is that they symbolize angels or messengers. When John refers to stars, he could be alluding to celestial beings that God created to glorify Him. In this context, the seven stars may refer to seven angels representing the churches that Jesus later addresses in chapters two and three of Revelation. Another possible interpretation is that the seven stars are the pastors or leaders of the seven churches, and their spirits are in God’s hands. No matter what interpretation you choose, these seven stars play a crucial role in Apocalypse’s message of salvation, rebuke, and warnings.
While there are different understandings of the seven stars’ symbolism in Revelation, one thing is clear: they represent an essential part of the Bible’s message. It’s important to note that the Book of Revelation employs various types of imagery, some of which can be confusing and open to interpretation. At the same time, studying the symbolism in the Bible can teach us valuable lessons about God’s nature, His plan for humanity, and the role we play in His story. So, stay tuned to learn more about the seven stars’ significance as we continue to uncover the mysteries of Revelation.
The Context of the Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation is known as the last book of the New Testament. It is a highly symbolic and apocalyptic work that has been the subject of much discussion and debate among scholars over the centuries. The book was written by the apostle John, who was exiled to the island of Patmos by the Roman Empire in the late first century AD. He wrote this book as a vision he received from God. This vision is a prophecy of the end of the world and the second coming of Jesus Christ.
What Do the Seven Stars in Revelation Symbolize?
- The Seven Churches of Asia Minor – The seven stars John saw in his vision represent the seven churches of Asia Minor.
- Communication – The stars also symbolize communication between God and the churches. The fact that they are held in Jesus’ right hand means that Jesus has control over them and their messages.
- Guidance – The stars also represent the guidance the churches received from Jesus.
The Importance of Symbolism in Revelation
The Book of Revelation is full of symbolism that can be difficult to understand. However, this symbolism is an important aspect of the book. It allows the reader to understand the events of the end times in a more spiritual and symbolic way. Symbolism also helps to convey deeper meanings that cannot be expressed in literal language alone.
The use of symbolism in Revelation is also rooted in Jewish and Old Testament symbolism. This is because the book was written at a time when Jewish and Christian communities were closely intertwined, and Jewish traditions and symbols played a significant role in the early Christian church.
Interpretations of the Symbols in Revelation
The symbolism in the Book of Revelation has been interpreted in many different ways over the centuries. Some see the symbols as literal depictions of events that will occur in the end times, while others view them as allegories for spiritual truths. Some interpretations have focused on specific historical events, while others have taken a more symbolic approach.
| Interpretation | Description |
|---|---|
| Historicist | This interpretation sees the symbols of Revelation as depicting events that have occurred throughout history, culminating in the end times. |
| Futurist | This interpretation sees the symbols of Revelation as describing events that will occur in the future, usually in a literal sense. |
| Preterist | This interpretation sees the symbols of Revelation as describing events that have already occurred, usually in reference to the fall of the Roman Empire. |
| Idealist | This interpretation sees the symbols of Revelation as allegories for spiritual truths, rather than literal depictions of events. |
Regardless of the specific interpretation, the Book of Revelation remains a powerful and important work of Christian literature that continues to captivate readers and inspire spiritual introspection today.
The Significance of Numbers in Biblical Symbolism
Numbers play a crucial role in biblical symbolism, connoting both literal and metaphorical concepts. The use of numbers in the Bible is not arbitrary but rather deliberate and intentional, conveying a deeper meaning and message. One such number with profound significance is the number 2.
The Number 2
The number 2 is the first even number and signifies duality and division. In biblical symbolism, the number 2 represents the separation between God and man, good and evil, light and dark, and the physical and spiritual realms. It is an ever-pervading motif in the Bible, appearing in the first chapter of Genesis where God separates light from darkness, water from land, and Eve from Adam.
- Divine and Human Division
- Good and Evil
- The Physical and Spiritual Realms
In biblical symbolism, the number 2 symbolizes the division that exists between God and humanity. The number 2 signifies the separation that occurred as a result of sin and the fall of man, as man cannot dwell in God’s presence due to disobedience, sin, and imperfection. The number 2 also represents the duality of Jesus Christ’s nature, both fully human and fully divine, as he bridges the gap between man and God.
The number 2 is also used to represent the dichotomy between good and evil. It is seen in the story of Cain and Abel, where Cain’s offering was rejected due to the tainted nature of his heart, while Abel’s offering was accepted due to his pure intentions. The number 2 signifies the ongoing battle between righteousness and sin, light and dark, and good and evil, and reflects the consequence of man’s choices concerning which path to follow.
The number 2 is also used to represent the division between the physical and spiritual realms. It reflects the limitations of the physical world and the need to tap into the spiritual realm for guidance and sustenance. The number 2 signifies the separation between the material and eternal, the temporal and permanent, and underscores the importance of focusing on the spiritual rather than the physical aspects of life.
Conclusion
The number 2 holds significant significance in biblical symbolism, conveying a deeper meaning and message. It represents the division between God and man, good and evil, and the physical and spiritual realm. The use of numbers in the Bible underscores the importance of interpreting scripture in its entirety, unravelling the many layers of meaning and unveiling the wisdom contained within.
| Biblical References |
|---|
| Genesis 1 |
| Genesis 4:1-16 |
| John 1:14 |
References:
Morris, L. (1980). The Revelation Record. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House.
Number Two Symbolism in the Bible (n.d.). Biblestudy.org. Retrieved from https://www.biblestudy.org/bibleref/meaning-of-numbers-in-bible/2.html
The History of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor
The book of Revelation contains a prophecy from Jesus to the seven churches of Asia Minor, which were existing at the time. These churches also serve as symbols for seven types of churches throughout history. Understanding the historical context of these churches is essential in understanding the significance of the seven stars mentioned in the book.
The seven churches of Asia Minor – Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamon, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea – were located in a region that is now Turkey. When the book of Revelation was written, they were part of the Roman Empire. Each church had its unique challenges, and Jesus had a specific message for each of them.
The Significance of the Number Seven
- The number seven is significant in the Bible, representing completeness and perfection.
- It is also the number of days in the creation story and the number of seals on the scroll in Revelation.
- Therefore, the seven churches in the book of Revelation symbolize the complete body of Christ and the perfect representation of churches throughout history.
The Message to the Churches
Each of the seven churches received a specific message from Jesus in the book of Revelation. The messages ranged from commendation to rebuke, and each had significance in the context of the church’s challenges and struggles.
For example, Jesus praised the church in Smyrna for its perseverance in the face of persecution and encouraged them to continue to remain faithful. In contrast, He rebuked the church in Laodicea for its lukewarmness and urged them to repent.
The Seven Stars in Revelation
In the book of Revelation, the seven stars are held in the right hand of Jesus, and they represent the seven angels or messengers of the seven churches. The stars serve as a reminder that Jesus is in control of the churches and their messengers.
| Church | Angel/Messenger |
|---|---|
| Ephesus | The angel who loves truth and hates evil deeds |
| Smyrna | The angel who has undergone persecution and death |
| Pergamum | The angel who holds fast to Jesus’ name but lives where Satan dwells |
| Thyatira | The angel who has love, faith, service, and patient endurance, but tolerates the woman Jezebel |
| Sardis | The angel who has a reputation for being alive but is dead |
| Philadelphia | The angel who is faithful, holy, has the key of David, opens, and no one will shut, who shuts, and no one opens |
| Laodicea | The angel who is lukewarm, wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked |
Overall, the seven stars in revelation symbolize the message from Jesus to the churches of Asia Minor and serve as a reminder that He is ultimately in control of the church and its messengers.
The Meaning of Stars in Biblical Symbolism
In the Bible, stars are often used as symbols to represent God’s vastness and greatness. In the Book of Revelation, the seven stars are significant as they represent the seven churches that were receiving the prophetic message. However, each star also bears its own individual meaning. Let’s take a look at what each one symbolizes.
Four Stars
- The first four stars are thought to symbolize the four evangelists- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Each Gospel account reveals Christ with a distinct aspect, embodied in the unique character of each evangelist. Matthew emphasizes Christ as King, Mark as Servant, Luke as Man, and John as God. Together, they provide a complete picture of who Christ is.
- The four stars have also been interpreted to stand for the four seasons. This significance stems from the idea that just as the four seasons regulate the workings of nature, so the four Gospels regulate the spirit of the Church.
- Moreover, it has been believed that the four stars represent the four archangels- Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel. They are messengers of God, coming to earth to aid humankind. They are also regarded as protectors of the four corners of the earth.
Whatever interpretation you follow, what’s evident is that the number four usually denotes completeness. The four stars remind us that the message of the Gospels is complete and sufficient for our needs. By taking hold of their message, we can experience the fullness of life and the grace of God in every area of our lives.
The Other Stars
The remaining three stars each bear a distinct symbolism. The star of Bethlehem represents the birth of Jesus Christ. The morning star represents the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Finally, the star that appears in Revelation 22 represents the second coming of Jesus Christ. These stars bring hope and serve as reminders of the redemptive work of Christ in our lives.
The Table of the Seven Stars
| Star | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| First Four Stars | Complete message of the Gospels |
| Star of Bethlehem | Birth of Jesus Christ |
| Morning Star | Resurrection of Jesus Christ |
| Star in Revelation 22 | Second coming of Jesus Christ |
We can see that the seven stars in the Book of Revelation are rich in symbolism. Together, they remind us of the completeness of the Gospel message and the hope we have in Jesus Christ. They assure us that God is in control, and as such, we need not be troubled or afraid for the future.
Interpretations of the Seven Stars in Revelation
The seven stars in Revelation are a symbol that has been interpreted in a variety of ways throughout history. Each interpretation has been shaped by the context of the time and the theological beliefs of those interpreting the text.
- Angels: One interpretation is that the seven stars represent angels. This interpretation is based on the fact that angels are often associated with stars in the Bible. The seven angels are seen as the guides of the seven churches, responsible for delivering the messages in Revelation to the churches.
- Pastors: Another interpretation is that the seven stars represent pastors or leaders of the seven churches. This interpretation sees the stars as symbols of the spiritual leadership of the church, responsible for guiding and caring for the members of the church.
- Divine Spirits: A third interpretation is that the seven stars represent the seven spirits of God. This interpretation is based on the idea that the number seven is often associated with completeness and perfection in the Bible. The seven spirits of God are seen as divine spirits that are complete and perfect in their representation of God’s character.
While these are just a few of the many interpretations of the seven stars in Revelation, they all point to the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance in the church. The stars serve as a reminder that those who are called to lead the church must do so with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the spiritual well-being of their congregants.
The Importance of Interpretation
The interpretation of the seven stars in Revelation is just one example of the importance of interpretation in the study of the Bible. The Bible is a complex and rich text that requires careful consideration of the historical, cultural, and linguistic context in which it was written. Without a deep understanding of these contexts, it is easy to misinterpret or misunderstand the text.
Interpreting the Bible is not just the work of scholars and theologians. It is a task that all Christians are called to engage in. Each of us brings our own unique perspective and experiences to the text. By sharing our insights and engaging in discussion and debate, we can deepen our understanding of the Bible and its message.
The Seven Churches of Revelation
The seven stars in Revelation are closely associated with the seven churches that are addressed in the text. These churches were all located in the ancient world, and each had its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The messages to the churches contain both praise and criticism, and they serve as a reminder that even the most faithful communities can fall into error.
| Church | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Ephesus | Good works, perseverance, rejection of false apostles | Abandonment of first love, tolerance of heresy |
| Smyrna | Faithfulness under persecution, spiritual wealth | Lack of material wealth, upcoming persecution |
| Pergamum | Faithfulness in death of Antipas, rejection of false teachers | Tolerance for false teachers, sexual immorality |
| Thyatira | Good works, love, faithfulness, perseverance | Tolerance of false prophet, allowing sexual immorality and idolatry |
| Sardis | Some good works, a remnant of faithfulness | Spiritual deadness, inaction, worldliness |
| Philadelphia | Perseverance, keeping God’s word | No significant weaknesses mentioned |
| Laodicea | Spiritual lukewarmness, self-sufficiency |
The messages to the seven churches serve as a set of warnings and encouragements to all Christian communities. They remind us that no community is perfect, but that we can always strive to grow in our faith and to remain faithful to the message of the gospel.
The Role of Angels in the Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation is a unique and complex text, and the appearance of angels throughout its pages adds to the intricacy of its symbolism and interpretation. Angels have a significant role in the Book of Revelation because they are messengers sent by God to guide and protect his followers, but they also play a part in the various judgments and punishments that are described.
The number seven is a recurring theme throughout Revelation, and it is associated with completion and perfection. The seven stars in Revelation symbolize the seven churches that are addressed in the first few chapters, as well as the seven angels who are responsible for delivering the messages to those churches. Each of these angels is a messenger who represents God’s authority and power, and their messages are meant to convey both encouragement and warning.
- One example of an angel who plays a significant role in the events of Revelation is the Archangel Michael, who is responsible for defeating the dragon in chapter 12.
- Another angel who is mentioned multiple times is the angel of the waters, who pours out the vials of God’s wrath in chapter 16.
- The four horsemen of the apocalypse are also believed to be angels, as they are described as being sent by God to carry out his plan of judgment and destruction.
These angels are not mere messengers but also have the power to enact divine justice and deliver God’s judgment upon the earth. Along with this power, angels are also portrayed as beings of incredible beauty, with wings and halos that signify their divine nature and authority.
The role of angels plays a crucial part in the interpretation and understanding of the Book of Revelation. Their appearances and actions throughout the text provide insight into God’s plan for the end of the world and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Their symbolism and significance are not limited to the Book of Revelation but are also present throughout Christian theology and literature, representing the divine messenger and protector of humankind.
| Angel | Appearance | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Archangel Michael | Wielding a sword and defeating the dragon in chapter 12 | Protector and defender of God’s people |
| Angel of the Waters | Pouring out the vials of God’s wrath in chapter 16 | Enacts God’s judgment upon the earth |
| Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse | Riding horses of different colors to carry out God’s plan of destruction and judgment | Agents of divine punishment and judgment |
Overall, the role of angels in the Book of Revelation is complex and multifaceted. They serve as both messengers of God’s will and agents of divine justice, and their symbolism and significance add to the richness of the text’s interpretation.
The Connection between the Seven Stars and the Seven Lampstands
The book of Revelation is known for its use of symbolism, and one of the most significant symbols used is the number 7. In the context of the book, the number 7 symbolizes completeness or perfection. It appears numerous times, from the seven churches to the seven seals, trumpets, and bowls, to the seven spirits of God. In this article, we will explore the connection between the seven stars and the seven lampstands.
The Number 7
- The number 7 is one of the most significant numbers in the Bible, appearing over 600 times.
- It is used to denote completion, totality, perfection, and fullness.
- It is found in the creation account in Genesis, where God completes His work in seven days.
- The book of Revelation is filled with 7s, indicating the complete and perfect plan of God.
The Seven Stars and the Seven Lampstands
The seven stars and the seven lampstands are mentioned in Revelation 1:20, where Jesus tells John that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches themselves. The lampstands symbolize the churches, which are to be a light to the world, and the stars symbolize the angels of the churches, who are responsible for the spiritual well-being of the congregation.
Interestingly, both the lampstands and the stars make up the menorah, which was a central symbol in the Jewish temple. The menorah was a seven-branched lampstand that symbolized the presence of God and His divine light. The connection between the menorah and the seven lampstands and stars indicates that the churches are a dwelling place for God’s presence.
The Significance of the Seven Stars and the Seven Lampstands
The use of the number 7 in the symbolism of the seven stars and the seven lampstands emphasizes the completeness and perfection of the church and its mission to be a light to the world. Furthermore, the combination of the menorah and the seven stars and lampstands indicates that the church is the dwelling place of God’s presence, making it a holy and sacred institution.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Seven | Completeness, totality, perfection, and fullness |
| Lampstands | The church as the light of the world |
| Stars | The spiritual leaders of the church |
The seven stars and the seven lampstands are a beautiful reminder that the church is called to be a light in the world, a place where God’s presence dwells, and a holy and sacred institution. By understanding the symbolism and significance of the number 7 in the book of Revelation, we gain a deeper appreciation for the completeness and perfection of God’s plan for His church.
The Importance of Revelation 2-3 in Understanding the Seven Stars
The Book of Revelation is the last book in the Christian Bible and is an apocalyptic text full of symbolism and prophecy. One of the recurring symbols found in this book is the seven stars, which are mentioned several times in Revelation. To understand the significance of these seven stars, it is important to examine Revelation 2-3, which provides context and meaning to the symbolism.
- Revelation 2-3 contains the letters to the seven churches in Asia, which were written by Jesus Christ and delivered to John the Apostle.
- Each letter addresses a specific church, praises them for their accomplishments, and offers criticism for their shortcomings.
- At the end of each letter, Jesus instructs John to write down the message for the church and includes a promise to the one who overcomes.
These letters are significant because they provide a glimpse into the early Christian Church and its challenges. They also offer insight into the character of Jesus Christ and his expectations for his followers. The letters also reveal the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of adversity.
When we look at the symbolism of the seven stars in light of the letters to the churches, we can see that the stars represent the angels or messengers of the seven churches. These angels could be a reference to the leaders or pastors of the churches, or they could represent the spiritual essence of the church itself.
| Church | Symbolism | Promise |
|---|---|---|
| Ephesus | The one who holds the seven stars in his right hand | To eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God |
| Smyrna | The First and the Last, who died and came to life again | To receive the crown of life and not be hurt by the second death |
| Pergamum | The one who has the sharp, double-edged sword | To eat of the hidden manna and receive a white stone with a new name written on it |
| Thyatira | The Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and feet are like burnished bronze | To receive authority over the nations and the morning star |
| Sardis | The one who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars | To be dressed in white and their names will not be erased from the book of life |
| Philadelphia | The one who is holy and true, who holds the key of David | To be made a pillar in the temple of God and never leave it |
| Laodicea | The Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation | To sit with Jesus on his throne, just as he overcame and sat down with his Father on his throne |
The promises offered to each church are also significant because they provide hope and encouragement to those who remain faithful. The symbolism of the seven stars and the letters to the churches remind us of the importance of maintaining our faith in the face of adversity and the promises that await us in the end.
The Relationship between the Seven Stars and the Seven Spirits of God
Revelation 1:20 explains that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches themselves. Revelation 5:6 describes the seven spirits of God as seven eyes and seven horns on the Lamb, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. So what is the relationship between the seven stars and the seven spirits of God?
- The seven stars represent the pastors or leaders of the seven churches, who were responsible for overseeing and guiding the spiritual growth of their congregations.
- The seven spirits of God represent the Holy Spirit and his attributes, which are essential for guiding and empowering believers in their spiritual walk.
- The relationship between the seven stars and the seven spirits of God is that the pastors were vessels for the Holy Spirit to work through, as they led and taught their churches.
In other words, the seven stars represent human leadership in the churches, while the seven spirits of God represent divine leadership through the Holy Spirit. As pastors relied on the Holy Spirit to guide their decisions and teach their congregations, the seven spirits of God worked through them to accomplish God’s purposes for the churches.
It’s important to note that the number seven is often used in the Bible to represent completeness or perfection. So the fact that there are seven stars and seven spirits of God suggests that together, they represent the complete leadership and guidance necessary for the seven churches (and by extension, all churches) to fulfill their spiritual purposes and bring glory to God.
| Seven Stars | Seven Spirits of God |
|---|---|
| Human leadership | Divine leadership through the Holy Spirit |
| Responsibility for guiding the churches | Empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill that responsibility |
| Vessels for the Holy Spirit to work through | The Holy Spirit working through the pastors to accomplish God’s purposes |
Overall, the relationship between the seven stars and the seven spirits of God is one of interdependence and collaboration. When pastors rely on the Holy Spirit to lead and guide them, they become effective vessels for the Holy Spirit to work through in accomplishing God’s purposes for their churches and communities.
The Application of the Seven Stars in Present-Day Christianity
Revelation 1:20 states, “The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.” This passage of the Bible refers to the seven stars that John saw in Christ’s right hand in the book of Revelation. The stars represented the seven angels, or messengers, of the seven churches of Asia Minor. The application of the seven stars in present-day Christianity has several important implications for our faith.
- The role of pastors: Just as the stars represented the messengers of the churches, pastors are seen as the messengers of God in modern-day Christianity. They are responsible for delivering God’s message to the congregation and guiding them in their faith.
- The importance of accountability: The angels in Revelation were accountable to Christ, just as pastors are accountable to God and their congregation. Christians should hold their pastors accountable for their actions and teachings in order to ensure that they are leading the church in the right direction.
- The diversity of the church: Each star represented a different church, and each church had its own unique strengths and weaknesses. This diversity is still present in modern-day Christianity, and it is important to recognize and celebrate the differences within the church.
The seven stars in Revelation also represent the seven churches of Asia Minor. These churches faced various challenges and struggles, but they also had their own strengths and successes. Today’s churches can learn from these examples and apply them to their own communities.
One way to understand the churches of Asia Minor is to examine the messages that Christ gave to each of them. These messages are recorded in Revelation 2-3 and provide insight into each church’s situation and struggles. The challenges facing these churches are still relevant today, and Christians can apply the lessons from these messages to their own lives and communities.
| Church | Message from Christ | Lesson for Today |
|---|---|---|
| Ephesus | The church had lost its first love and needed to repent and return to its original passion for Christ. | Christians today should remember to keep their passion for Christ alive and repent when they stray from their faith. |
| Smyrna | The church faced persecution but was promised eternal life and exhorted to remain faithful. | Christians should remember that persecution and suffering are a part of the Christian journey, but we have the promise of eternal life and should remain faithful in the face of adversity. |
| Pergamum | The church was criticized for tolerating false teaching and immorality. | Christians should be vigilant against false teachings and immoral behavior within their churches. |
The application of the seven stars in present-day Christianity reminds us to stay accountable to God and our community, to celebrate diversity within the church, and to learn from the examples set by the churches of Asia Minor. By doing so, we can continue to grow spiritually and serve as messengers of Christ in our own communities.
What do the seven stars in Revelation symbolize?
Q: What are the seven stars mentioned in Revelation?
The seven stars mentioned in Revelation are believed to refer to the seven angels of the seven churches mentioned earlier in the book.
Q: What do the seven stars symbolize?
The seven stars in Revelation symbolize the seven angels of the seven churches. These angels are believed to represent the spiritual leaders of the churches.
Q: Why seven stars and not any other number?
Seven is a symbolic number in biblical literature, and it often represents completeness or perfection. In Revelation, the seven stars represent the completeness of the spiritual leadership in the seven churches.
Q: What is the role of the angels in the churches?
The angels of the seven churches are believed to represent the spiritual leaders of those churches. As such, their role is to guide and lead the congregations in their spiritual journey.
Q: How are the seven stars relevant today?
The seven stars in Revelation serve as a reminder of the importance of good spiritual leadership in the church. They also remind us that the church is a community of believers, not just a building or an institution.
Q: Can we apply the symbolism of the seven stars to our personal lives?
Yes, we can apply the symbolism of the seven stars to our personal lives by striving to be good spiritual leaders in our own communities. We can also remember that we are part of a larger community of believers and should work towards its betterment.
Q: What is the takeaway from the symbolism of the seven stars?
The takeaway from the symbolism of the seven stars is that good spiritual leadership is essential for the growth and well-being of the church. It also reminds us of the importance of community and working towards its betterment.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to read about the symbolism of the seven stars in Revelation. It is important to understand the symbolism of the Bible to fully appreciate its message. Please come back to read more articles on similar topics.