How do I know when the Bible is talking literally or figuratively?
The Devotional Answer
The best way to approach this is with a humble heart that seeks the Author's original intent. When you read Scripture, don't ask, "What does this mean to me?" but rather, "What did God mean when He inspired this to be written?"
The Bible is a love letter, a history book, a teaching manual, and poetry all in one. Because God is orderly, He wrote each section in a way that its meaning is understandable if we apply common sense and pay attention to the style of the writing.
Trust that the Holy Spirit will help you understand God's truth, whether it is communicated as plain fact or beautiful poetry.
The Simple Answer
The general "Golden Rule" of Bible interpretation is: Interpret the Bible literally, unless the context clearly indicates it is figurative.
You determine this by looking at the literary genre (the type of writing) and the immediate context of the verse. When you read a history book like the Gospel of John, assume it is literal when it says, "Jesus came to a town in Samaria called Sychar." (John 4:5).
But when you read a poem in the Psalms, assume it is figurative when it says, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress" (Psalm 18:2). The type of writing tells you what kind of truth to look for.
The Deeper Dive
Discerning the difference between literal and figurative language (often called hermeneutics) relies heavily on context and language cues.
1. Always Check the Immediate Context
No verse should be interpreted in isolation. Read the surrounding verses, the chapter, and the entire book. If a historical book like the Gospels says, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), it is a literal historical fact. If Jesus says, "I am the gate" (John 10:9), He is speaking metaphorically to explain His role as the only way to God. The immediate passage shows He is using a common cultural analogy.
2. Watch for Literary Signals
Figurative language often includes clear signals. Look for similes, which use "like" or "as" (e.g., "be swift as a gazelle"), or metaphors, which make a direct comparison (e.g., "You are the salt of the earth").
Also, be aware of hyperbole (extreme exaggeration used for emphasis), as when Jesus says, "If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out," (Matthew 5:29)—He is making an extreme statement to teach the extreme measure needed against sin, not commanding self-mutilation.
Common sense also applies: When Jesus says, "I am the bread of life," we know He is not a physical loaf of bread, but the source of spiritual nourishment.
3. Start with the Literal, Move to the Figurative
The basic rule for the new Christian is to assume the text is telling you a literal truth or historical fact unless that literal interpretation makes the text impossible or nonsensical within its setting.
For example, the creation account (Genesis 1-2) is written as a clear, sequential historical narrative, which is why many Christians take the "who, what, and where" of the story as literal truth.
God’s Assurance
God assures you that His Word is not a puzzle meant to trick you, but a guide meant to lead you to truth.
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." — Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
The Holy Spirit lives within you to help you understand Scripture. If you are reading honestly and seeking truth, God will prevent you from making essential, fatal errors in interpretation.
Your Takeaway Thought
Approach the Bible with a desire to understand, not a desire to argue or find contradictions. When you read a tough verse, remember the three keys: Context, Context, Context! Read what comes before and after. When in doubt, talk to a pastor or an experienced believer—they can help you understand the genre and historical setting, ensuring you read it as God intended.
