Let’s talk about dragons. No, not the fire-breathing kind from fantasy novels—though those aren’t as far off as you might think. In several contexts, the Bible mentions dragons, or at least creatures translated as dragons. In the Hebrew text, we encounter “tannin,” which different translations render as “dragon,” “serpent,” or “sea monster.” In Job 7:12,…
Author: Curtis L. Mattson
When a Dove Is More than a Dove
God made an awful lot of birds. Currently, one list records some 11,000+ species, while others estimate the number should be more like 20,000+. But apparently the Creator wanted to make one particular bird that would have multiple characteristics that he could use to illustrate several facets of his nature and character. That bird is…
Desert Do’s and Don’ts
HAVE YOU EVER HEARD someone say, “I’m going through a dry time right now”? Or, they may say they feel like they’re in a desert. I think we’d all agree that this is a common human feeling. It’s an unpleasant time that no one welcomes. Sometimes those times end well, sometimes not. Given their geographical…
The Duality of Death
SOME READERS MAY disagree that “death” should be called a metaphor. True, the choice may be stretching the meaning of death . . . or of metaphor! But I am taking my cue from the fact that there are two types of death referred to in the Bible: one physical and one spiritual. So, to…
What on Earth is a Cornerstone?
IN ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE, the cornerstone was more than a decorative touch; it was the building’s foundational element. This first stone, carefully selected and precisely laid, determined the structure’s alignment and stability. Builders would use it to establish the correct orientation of all subsequent stones. If the cornerstone was off, the entire building risked leaning, weakening,…
All the Colors of the Rainbow … or Not
WHEN GOD USES THE COLORS of the visible spectrum seen by the human eye, he adds a whole new palette (pun intended) to his choices of metaphors. Whether it’s black, blue, green, gold, purple, red, or white, each one has a symbolism for us, and thus, a means of communicating for God. Some colors are…
Brides, Bridegrooms, and Weddings, Oh My!
Throughout the Bible, the metaphors of Bride, Bridegroom, and Weddings are used to illustrate God’s relationship with his people—both positively and negatively. In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel is often portrayed as God’s bride. For example, Isaiah 62:5 says, “As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.” This shows the intimacy and joy God desires to have with his chosen people.
Looking for God and Finding Ourselves
SO MANY SEEKERS, philosophers, and the like try to “find God” simply within their own experience and frame of reference. Some go to the mountains, some to the desert. In those places, however, they may only see the creative power of God. And, if they are so inclined, they will perhaps praise him in their…
Of Shepherds and Kings
YOU WOULD THINK THAT, for a deity to identify itself, its attributes, and its intentions by equating itself with menial members of its creation, it would be the ultimate in humiliation. But indeed, that is what the Judeo-Christian God has done. And in so doing, he demonstrates his grace and, ultimately, his love. Did you…
Heaving Up Jonah
THERE ARE ‘NICE’ METAPHORS in the Bible and … there are ‘not-so-nice’ ones. For a usually repulsive word, this one occurs on a fairly regular basis throughout scripture. The word “vomit” and its various forms appears some 25 times from Genesis to Revelation, depending on your translation. Not all instances are used as metaphors, but…