Bible Numbers and Symbols

It is necessary for human language to incorporate numerical expression to convey ideas. God uses numbers in Scripture for the same reason. Seldom does the Bible state that a number is to be interpreted in a figurative sense, instead of a mathematical expression. If the primary meaning of biblical numbers is quantity, then we need to be careful in applying a figurative sense, lest we negate their intended idea. With that said, a symbolic concept may coexist with a literal numerical meaning, but in a less prominent way. A figurative meaning may be inferred from the biblical text, if frequent and consistent associations between that specific number (or a symbol) and an idea are observed. In such cases, God is conveying additional information to us to further emphasize something in the narrative or to highlight some aspect of His purposes. The whole of Scripture forms the basis of understanding the literal and figurative meanings contained in any particular passage. It is God's consistent use of numbers and symbols throughout Scripture that permits us to discover the various layers of truth revealed in Scripture; these He desires us to know and to appreciate.    - Warren Henderson