Definition: The term "allegory" comes from Latin, meaning a metaphor or figure that describes reality through symbols or similes, often to explain difficult concepts or ideas. It can also refer to an allegorical way in which people interpret real events as if they were happening within their own minds. In the context of the Bible, "allegory" is used metaphorically to describe a story or description in the Old Testament that explains complex truths through simple, familiar imagery. For example: - In Genesis 3:17-26, God speaks to Abram as if he were telling a parable - "I am your father; I will bless you and keep you from all of this trouble." This allegorical way helps readers see the consequences of their actions in a broader perspective without feeling like they are being lectured or criticized. It is an example of how Scripture uses symbolism to communicate truths that might otherwise be too complex for human understanding.

allegory

Definition: The phrase "allegory" comes from the Greek word "alēgōra," which means "to pass through or to be in." It originally referred to a trick where an artist uses figures, symbols, or sounds to convey meaning. In the context of Christian theology and symbolism, "allegory" refers to allegorical stories that depict divine truths as human experiences. This idea is often used for deeper spiritual understanding by using metaphorical language to explain complex ideas in simpler ways. For example, a story could be told where the shepherd finds himself being tempted by a devil at night (in Greek mythology), and his sheep find themselves drawn into temptation from this deception. This concept is found throughout the Bible, where various stories are interpreted allegorically or metaphorically. The Old Testament, for instance, often uses these allegorical images to convey moral lessons and divine ideas through the characters of the story. By doing so, the message becomes more accessible and understandable to the readers or hearers. The term "allegory" has been translated into English from Greek before, but it's also often used in its literal sense, meaning a diagram or illustration that is intended to convey a thought or idea using symbols, not directly for explaining a particular concept. The difference between the two is subtle and doesn't alter the essence of the allegorical interpretation.

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