If Genesis is Metaphorical, what's the metaphor?

I've often heard of people claiming that Genesis is not to be taken literal and that it is to be taken as allegorical, metaphorical, or whatever you want to call it. If this is indeed the case, what exactly is the metaphor?In large part, Genesis is written in a historical atmosphere. It is not poetical like the Psalms, and while it may use literary device it is not written in that sort of setting.This message has been edited by AdminSylas, 02-21-2005 21:50 AM

Jar
Lets start with the creation account

I'll leave how to approach the creation stroy(s) up to the board. For me personally, there is one author and a single creation story in Gen 1 supported/extended (the word I'd like to use escapes me for now, but these will have to do) in Gen 2. When Gen 2 is read in the context of Gen 1 there really isn't a large difference in my opinion. However, that's a topic for another thread. For now, I'd simply like to stay on what exactly the metaphor, if there is a metaphor, the creation story(s) represent.

Jor-el-I would agree. I believe that Moses is the author and I take Genesis literally. Poetic device is used as with almost any writing. I just want to understand the opposing view.Jar-As far as Genesis goes, we have entirely different viewpoints, which is fine. To each his own. However, I would suggest reading Paradise to Prison, by John J. Davis. A very well written book, and I'll warn you now he is conservative. But he is very thorough in his analysis of Genesis. I would suggest it to anyone with an interest in Gen.