Interpreting Symbols In Revelation
One major problem for Bible readers is the interpretation of various symbols used in Revelation. Biblical scholars have been classified into two major groups according to their differences in method of interpretation (Koestenberger, 549).
1. Literal > symbolic This group interprets symbols literally as much as possible. They do not interpret them symbolically unless it does not make any sense. For example, sword from the mouth of Jesus will not be interpreted literally. Dealing closely with the foundation meaning of the text is an advantage for this approach. But they still have problem due to lack of the consideration of literary genre. As Revelation was also written in apocalyptic genre, symbols are most likely used for this kind of writings. Thus, the intended meanings by the author might be misinterpreted if readers …show more content…
consider only literally interpretation of the symbols (Koestenberger, 550-551).
2. Symbolic > literal This group uses another approach by looking at the symbols used by John symbolically rather than its literally interpretation. They consider literary genre of the text to prevent the extreme interpretation (Koestenberger, 549-550).
Seven steps to interpret symbols in Revelation (Koestenberger, 552-557)
1.
Read carefully and identify the symbol and its relationship with other items in the text. The reader should be aware of the symbolic meanings of the text to avoid extreme interpretation or misinterpretation.
2. Find available meaning of symbols in the text. Some of them were given the meanings by John. This information could be used as reference when a same symbol is repeated again in the text. The reader can recognize them from the key words such as they are, these are, which are or stands for etc. For example, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches (Revelation 1:20).
3. Compare some symbols with the passage in the Old Testament. For example, the lampstands in Zechariah 4:1-14. The exact meanings from John and in the Old Testament might be slightly different. But the reader will be able grasp idea for more effective interpretation. However, the reader should not take Revelation as the attempt to interpret the Old Testament.
4. Check with another writings in apocalyptic genre. Identify the parallels from both Biblical canon and Jewish
writings.
5. Identify if symbols have the connection with cultural and historical context. For example, in the next 1,000 year, Malaysian readers might misunderstand the word “twin towers” from 9/11 event. Because “twin towers” is referring to the “PETRONAS twin towers” which is the famous landmark of Kuala Lumpur city.
6. Look for the meanings of symbols in scholarly commentaries or writings. Even though their works do not certify the accuracy of interpretation, the reader could learn something from their thoughts and experiences in exegetical works. Therefore, the reader should not rely on only one particular commentary or one viewpoint.
7. Studying of Revelation is a lifetime job. The reader should repeat above steps over and over again. They should keep in mind that only God knows the real meanings of Revelation. There is no exact method or meaning for the symbols in Revelation. The readers should be humble with their own interpretations. No one will really have the best interpretation or exact meaning of the symbols.
1. Literal > symbolic This group interprets symbols literally as much as possible. They do not interpret them symbolically unless it does not make any sense. For example, sword from the mouth of Jesus will not be interpreted literally. Dealing closely with the foundation meaning of the text is an advantage for this approach. But they still have problem due to lack of the consideration of literary genre. As Revelation was also written in apocalyptic genre, symbols are most likely used for this kind of writings. Thus, the intended meanings by the author might be misinterpreted if readers …show more content…
consider only literally interpretation of the symbols (Koestenberger, 550-551).
2. Symbolic > literal This group uses another approach by looking at the symbols used by John symbolically rather than its literally interpretation. They consider literary genre of the text to prevent the extreme interpretation (Koestenberger, 549-550).
Seven steps to interpret symbols in Revelation (Koestenberger, 552-557)
1.
Read carefully and identify the symbol and its relationship with other items in the text. The reader should be aware of the symbolic meanings of the text to avoid extreme interpretation or misinterpretation.
2. Find available meaning of symbols in the text. Some of them were given the meanings by John. This information could be used as reference when a same symbol is repeated again in the text. The reader can recognize them from the key words such as they are, these are, which are or stands for etc. For example, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches (Revelation 1:20).
3. Compare some symbols with the passage in the Old Testament. For example, the lampstands in Zechariah 4:1-14. The exact meanings from John and in the Old Testament might be slightly different. But the reader will be able grasp idea for more effective interpretation. However, the reader should not take Revelation as the attempt to interpret the Old Testament.
4. Check with another writings in apocalyptic genre. Identify the parallels from both Biblical canon and Jewish
writings.
5. Identify if symbols have the connection with cultural and historical context. For example, in the next 1,000 year, Malaysian readers might misunderstand the word “twin towers” from 9/11 event. Because “twin towers” is referring to the “PETRONAS twin towers” which is the famous landmark of Kuala Lumpur city.
6. Look for the meanings of symbols in scholarly commentaries or writings. Even though their works do not certify the accuracy of interpretation, the reader could learn something from their thoughts and experiences in exegetical works. Therefore, the reader should not rely on only one particular commentary or one viewpoint.
7. Studying of Revelation is a lifetime job. The reader should repeat above steps over and over again. They should keep in mind that only God knows the real meanings of Revelation. There is no exact method or meaning for the symbols in Revelation. The readers should be humble with their own interpretations. No one will really have the best interpretation or exact meaning of the symbols.