How do Mormons view the Bible?

[Rainbow Mage]

Is the Bible to be taken entirely literally from LDS view, or can it be metaphorical, spiritual, etc.? Also, in LDS perspective, should the traditional interpretations of verses be maintained, or is exploring new meanings encouraged?

Thank you

 

[silvermoon383]

Both. Since the Bible is a collection of works we recognize that some parts will be literal, some parts will not. I'm not sure what you mean by "traditional interpretations" though. If you're referring to the same interpretations as most other Christians, then again, the answer is both.

 

[Katzpur]

I don't believe there are very many LDS who interpret everything in the Bible literally, and I have never heard the Church leadership clarify which parts should and should not be taken literally. Like Silvermoon, I'm not sure I understand what you mean by the second part of your question.

 

[hindupridemn]

The Bible is viewed as "spiritually correct so far as it has been translated accurately". The Book of Mormon takes precedence. None of the Scriptures are viewed as a scientific or historical textbook.

 

[Katzpur]

The Bible is viewed as "spiritually correct so far as it has been translated accurately". The Book of Mormon takes precedence. None of the Scriptures are viewed as a scientific or historical textbook.

I believe you are referring to the eighth Article of Faith, which states: "We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God." The Book of Mormon does not take precedence over the Bible. They are seen as companion volumes of scripture and and studied equally.

 

[madhatter85]

The Bible is viewed as "spiritually correct so far as it has been translated accurately". The Book of Mormon takes precedence. None of the Scriptures are viewed as a scientific or historical textbook.

Sorry but this is incorrect, the Book of Mormon does not override or take precedence because there are no inherent conflicts between them. when read together they form two witnesses to the same event.

 

[tomato1236]

As far as exploring meanings, yes, we do it all the time. The whole point of reading the scriptures is to find meaning there. Are we encouraged to take as doctrine meanings that conflict with the teachings of the prophet? Well no, we aren't. If I read in the new testament that women should be silent in church and I take it to mean that women should not speak at church on Sunday and I tell them to be quiet, I'm probably wrong, since women are encouraged to speak and to teach in our meetings by the presidency of the church. There is no penalty for exploring that possible meaning. We're encouraged to search, ponder and pray to receive personal revelation. Not every scripture and interpretation is defined for us.