How do we know what part of the Bible is allegorical and what part literal?

Question

Gramps,

This thing about Adam not being formed from the dust of THIS earth and Eve not being formed from a rib taken from Adams side – as the bible says. Should we believe that the flood is real and the dividing of the earth in the days of Peleg is real, but not the Adam and Eve story? If there IS more to this story, or if it is totally incorrect as Brigham Young apparently alleges? Why don’t we hear about it in our Sunday School lessons and other sacred places? Please give me more data.

Dennis

Answer

Dear Dennis,

It’s necessary in studying the scriptures, as in any other endeavor, to use a little common sense. The scriptures are not a second grade reader, and they cannot be fully understood by anyone, regardless of how intelligent he is, without the aid of the Holy Spirit. Parts of the scripture are allegorical in nature and parts are literal. If one part is allegorical, don’t expect the entire Bible to be full of nothing but euphemisms; and if one part is literal, we mustn’t assume that nothing is allegorical. Further, who would have the audacity to attempt to correct the Prophets, who are blessed with both inspiration and deep insight?

The reason we don’t hear more about such things in our Sunday School classes is because the class lessons in all the priesthood and auxiliary organizations deal more with the those aspects of the gospel that are pertinent to and directly applicable to our salvation. They are designed to increase our knowledge of the basic fundamental principles of the gospel and to increase our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, rather than to titillate our imaginations and curiosities.

If you find apparent inconsistencies in the scriptures I would suggest that you immediately accept that your understanding is incomplete, rather than imagining that the scriptures are not inspired, and sincerely and repeatedly ask your Father in Heaven for enlightenment and understanding. If, by your righteous living you qualify for the influence of the Holy Spirit, you will be taught from on high, for the Lord has said;

And I give unto you a commandment, that ye shall forsake all evil and cleave unto all good, that ye shall live by every word which proceedeth forth out of the mouth of God.

 

For he will give unto the faithful line upon line, precept upon precept; and I will try you and prove you herewith (D&C 98:11-12).

Gramps