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The concept of Allegory in Christianity

In Christianity, Allegory is identified as a narrative style where characters and events symbolize deeper meanings and truths, distinguishing it from fables. It serves as a literary device that portrays one thing to signify another, requiring a dual examination of both representations. Allegory conveys hidden meanings, often moral or political, through symbolic figures and actions, allowing complex ideas to be expressed in stories or imagery. Early Christian interpretations emphasize its role in revealing deeper insights beyond the surface narrative.

Synonyms: Fable, Parable, Metaphor, Symbolism, Analogy, Representation, Illustration, Symbol, Emblem, Apologue, Allegorical tale, Narrative, Moral story, Tale

In Dutch: Allegorie; In German: Allegorie; In Finnish: Allegoria; In Spanish: 础濒别驳辞谤铆补; In Malay: Kiasan; In Swedish: Allegori

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Allegory'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) A different literary form that is distinguished from fables, represented by Ezekiel 17:3-10.[1] (2) A literary device where one thing represents another, using detailed symbolism to convey a deeper meaning, unlike parables which maintain narrative integrity.[2] (3) A narrative style where characters and events symbolize deeper meanings and truths.[3]

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) Allegory, which lacks outward reality, is used to represent a historical being or event, as seen in the Song of Solomon representing the heavenly Bridegroom.[4]

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) This term, according to its initial and correct definition, represents one item intended to trigger the representation of another item, requiring a twofold examination of both representations.[5]

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) The chapter discusses the use of symbolic representation and veiled meanings, indicating a method of conveying complex ideas through stories or imagery.[6] (2) A narrative that conveys deeper meanings through symbolic figures, actions, or events.[7] (3) A narrative that conveys hidden meanings, typically moral or political, using symbolic figures and actions.[8]

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) This refers to the interpretation of the parable, in which the characters and events are understood to represent deeper symbolic meanings.[9]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.