Word pictures and figures of speech fill Scripture, but this post specifically focuses on metaphors and similes in the Bible. We will consider their benefit and how we can best understand them. But first, what are they?

Metaphors and similes are both word pictures that biblical authors use to help us understand deep spiritual truths. The authors present images of the familiar and concrete to explain the more unfamiliar and abstract. They compare two essentially different things to highlight one or more ways they are alike.

The difference between metaphors and similes is subtle. Similes use words such as “like” or “as” to soften the comparison. For instance, Jesus used this simile to teach about the nature of the kingdom of God: “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed” (Matthew 13:31). 

In contrast, metaphors don’t include words that clearly announce that a comparison is coming. Instead, metaphors boldly declare that “this is that.” For instance, Jesus used a metaphor when He told His followers, “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13 ESV). However, the reader easily recognizes both simile and metaphor as word pictures.

Different Forms of Metaphors and Similes in the Bible

Metaphors and similes appear in Scripture in various forms. Sometimes they are small, simple images contained in just one sentence. For instance, we see a simple metaphor when Jesus called His first disciples. “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 5:19 ESV).

Sometimes we see pairs or strings of simple word pictures joined together for greater impact. For instance:

So, I am to them like a lion; like a leopard I will lurk beside the way. I will fall upon them like a bear robbed of her cubs; I will tear open their breast, and there I will devour them like a lion, as a wild beast would rip them open. Hosea 13:7-8 ESV

One more form is the extended metaphor or simile. The author paints a more detailed image for the reader then expands on it using commentary and explanation. My favorite example is Psalm 1:1-3:

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

The simile proper is the image of the tree. But the author expands on it with commentary and explanation both before and after. He also compares the man who delights in God’s Word with the wicked. This simile teaches us the value of grounding our life in Scripture. We will be spiritually healthy and vital and we will be productive for God’s kingdom. 

The Effectiveness of Word Pictures in the Bible 

Word pictures are a very effective teaching tool. The rich images heighten our learning by sparking our imagination and engaging our emotions. Because of the familiarity of the visual painted for us, we can see, feel, smell, hear, and taste it. With all of our senses involved, the biblical author now invites us to impose or transfer the meaning of the familiar to something less familiar or unknow. In this way, he uses the metaphor or simile to communicate deep or complex spiritual truth.

Not only do we gain deeper understanding through word pictures, but the truth they teach sticks with us better than truth simply stated with words. For instance, Psalm 23 is probably the best-known and likely the most-loved psalm. Even many people not familiar with the Bible have heard and remember it. The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. 

Tips for Understanding the Metaphors and Similes in the Bible

Although word pictures are heavily used in the Bible’s poetry, we also find them throughout Scripture. Jesus used them liberally because He knew their power to effectively communicate important spiritual truth. The following tips will help us recognize the truth they teach. (Also see “Poetic Metaphor” on the Bible Project.)

1. Identify the image – Recognize that the biblical author is intentionally using a word picture and identify what it is. 
2. Observe the image – Next, “see what it says.” Look for how the author describes the image. What components does he highlight? Look to see if the author compares or contrasts this image with something else. (Also see “10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study.“)
3. Consult resources for cultural and historical information if needed – The biblical authors painted word pictures grounded in their time and culture. Although they were familiar to their original readers, some may be unfamiliar to us. Therefore, for solid understanding we may need to consult resources. (Also see “Mind the Historical and Cultural Gap.“)
4. Identify the spiritual truth or concept – The abstract concept described by the word picture might be clearly stated by the author in the immediate context. If it’s not, back up and consider the larger literary context. 
5. Understand what the concrete word picture teaches about this abstract spiritual truth – Particularly note any commentary or explanation the author gives. Identify the main points the author makes. Write a brief statement summarizing the overall truth.
6. Recognize where the comparison end – Word pictures have limits. Every analogy breaks down at some point. We must not try to go beyond the comparison the biblical author intended.

What is your favorite metaphor or simile in the Bible? What does it teach?