Bible Quote by Joseph Campbell
“When you translate the Bible with excessive literalism, you demythologize it. The possibility of a convincing reference to the individual's own spiritual experience is lost. (111)”
About This Quote
Excessive literal translation of the Bible removes its mythic depth, losing personal spiritual resonance.
In simple terms: Literalism strips mythic meaning.
Key Takeaway
Embrace metaphor for deeper connection.
Themes
faith
interpretation
mythology
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- theology
- personal study
- sermons
Key Concepts
symbolism
spiritual experience
Questions to Reflect On
- How does metaphor enrich faith?
- Can literal reading ever be sufficient?
A Different Perspective
Literalism can oversimplify complex texts.
![“Moderates in every faith are obliged to loosely interpret (or simply ignore) much of their canons in the interests of living in the modern world. [...] The first thing to observe about the moderate’s retreat from scriptural literalism is that it draws its inspiration not from scripture but from…” quote by Sam Harris](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b44/sam-harris-457_bible_moderates-in-every-faith-are-obliged-to_6967.jpg)
![“The fall [of your soul] from perfection into duality...was naturally followed by the discovery of the duality of good and evil...This is the Biblical version of a myth known to many lands.” quote by Joseph Campbell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9ff/joseph-campbell-300_biblical_the-fall-of-your-soul-from-perfection-in_22526.jpg)
