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Symbolism in the Bible is one of my favorite things to study. (I also love to study women of the Bible!)

The Bible uses a variety of symbols, or word pictures, to describe characteristics of God and His plan for salvation.

Symbols in the Bible and their meaning are something that are often overlooked but with careful study can reveal many wonders to us.

Why God May Use Symbolism in the Bible

Throughout the symbolism in the Bible, we can see that God uses people, things or other concepts that we can easily understand to represent those ideas that are more complex to help give us a better understanding. This method of teaching is very common throughout the Bible. Much of the writings of Moses are considered largely metaphorical. Unfortunately, some people deny the literal meaning and then there are others who only look at the literal application and are unaware of the symbolic meaning found there. So, in addition to the literal meanings, there are often deeper meanings, which describe various features of God’s great Plan of Salvation.

Symbolism in the Bible - An image of a Bible open on a white wooden table with purple flowers to the left side

Sometimes God’s Word is cloaked in symbols to hide a deeper meaning or to protect the messages.

“He said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that,

“‘though seeing, they may not see;
though hearing, they may not understand.’”

– Luke 8:10

Many of the apocalyptic prophecies were given while the prophets were in a hostile foreign land. One reason God cloaked the prophecies in symbols was to protect the messages.

If you enjoy symbolism in the Bible, I hope you enjoy the following round up of posts about Bible symbols and meanings.

Symbolism in the Bible

Rainbows In The Bible: 3 of God's Awe-Inspiring Promises to His Children

Rainbows in the Bible and their significance. What they mean, where they are found in scripture, printable Bible verses about rainbows and Hebrew translation.

The Incredibly Interesting Symbolism Of Plants In The Bible

Symbolism of plants in the Bible. How plants & humans are nurtured in the same way including a deeper look at several plants, their significance and scripture.

Birds In The Bible: A Fascinating Look At The Symbolism Of Doves And Sparrows

The symbolism of birds in the Bible and a closer look at doves and sparrows in God's Word (includes printables with verses and images for Bible journaling).

Eagles, Ravens and Unclean Birds of the Bible

A look at eagles, ravens and unclean birds in the Bible. Their significance and Bible verses to dig deeper into these fowls

Open Doors in the Bible: What Doors is God Opening in Your Life?

Open doors in the Bible: What God says and 10 ways you can test to see if an open door is from God (including free printable)

The Symbolism of Closed Doors in the Bible: What God May be Telling You

Closed doors in the Bible and what God may be saying to you. With scripture references and my story in regards to closed doors. (with printables)

Fruits In The Bible: Their Intriguing Symbolism And Use In Scripture

Examing six fruits in the Bible including their symbolism, use in Scripture and dozens of Bible references plus free download

A Look at Hands in the Bible

The symbolism and use of hands in the Bible. How God designed our hands to carry out His will and how Jesus used his hands during His time on earth.

The Intriguing Symbolism Of Numbers In The Bible & A Look At One Through Five

The intriguing symbolism of numbers in the Bible and a look at numbers one through five and what they represent in God's Holy Word.

Run The Race: Sports Imagery In The Bible

Sports imagery in the Bible. A look at what it means to run the race for Christ including related scripture and other Bible symbolism.

Color Symbolism in the Bible

Colors are used throughout the Bible to reflect meanings or spiritual truths. They have a symbolic significance and can remind us of God and his plan for our salvation. Here is a round up of posts I've written about the symbolism of colors in the Bible. Bible symbolism is one of my absolute favorite things to study in the Bible. How about you?