What is “Metaphysical”?
Literally, Metaphysical means “beyond the physical.” The study of metaphysics is to seek an understanding of the absolute nature of reality. The study examines the Truth behind our existence and the universal principles that account for all that is. It involves questions like – why and how do we exist, what is the nature of the universe, what empowers the universe to exist, where did it come from, what is the nature of our being and the purpose of our existence.
Unity’s teachings are an ongoing study of the metaphysical spiritual principles that govern this physical universe and all that is beyond. In Matt. 5:45, Jesus describes God, not as one who rewards or punishes, but as a universal principle that “makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good” equally. Jesus describes a neutral universal law that determines our life experiences, based on how we choose to work with it when he said – “let it be done to you as you believe” (Matt. 9.29.) Our work in Unity is to develop not a blind faith but an understanding faith, based on spiritual principles that operate the same way every time, for everyone. We believe that the Source of these principles is God and that God is not only the essence of our beingness but also the very ground of Being. Most importantly, while we describe God as Principle, Law, Power, and Substance, we also know God as Love, as Good, as Wisdom and Life. CLICK HERE to learn more about Unity’s beliefs.
What is Metaphysical Bible Interpretation?
While Fundamentalism interprets the Bible literally, Unity looks beyond the literal story to a metaphysical interpretation of the writings. Rather than focus on the geographical locations, the actual people, and the historical occurrences, we interpret these literal elements as aspects of our own consciousness. For instance, when reading the story of Noah from the book of Genesis, rather than interpret it as a story of God punishing the human race for their depravity by drowning them with a flood that lasted 40 days, we examine the elements of the story as aspects of our own consciousness. The key elements in this story might include the human race, Noah, the ark, the animals, and the flood. Though Unity refers to the Metaphysical Bible Dictionary and the Revealing Word for interpretation (developed by founder Charles Fillmore), each person is encouraged to spend time in meditation to call forth meaning which their own Higher Self may provide.
Unity in Naperville will continue to offer ongoing samples of metaphysical Bible interpretation on this page, and we recommend reviewing the website www.TruthUnity.net for free access to Charles Fillmore’s Metaphysical Bible Dictionary and The Revealing Word for further exploration. We also encourage you to practice self-discovery and develop your intuitive abilities by discerning how the elements of bible stories might be playing out symbolically in your own consciousness.
Practicing Metaphysical Bible Interpretation
The following is an outline provided by Unity Institute to walk you through the process of metaphysically interpreting a bible story.
- Center into the awareness of Oneness (meditation or prayer) putting God first; this puts Christ Nature first.
- Read the passage.
- Paraphrase what’s happening in the story, using your own words.
- List the nouns, pronouns and action words in a spreadsheet.
- Look up the meanings of the words and assign them to each of the words in the spreadsheet. This is where you might want to refer to The Metaphysical Bible Dictionary or The Revealing Word by Charles Fillmore for definitions but don’t be afraid to discern your own symbolism.
- As you read down your list of definitions, write out a paraphrase of the story. Read it aloud even if it sounds awkward.
- Refine the interpretation, inserting words as necessary to make it flow and become more clear.
Check out our blog to delve deeper into exploring “The Metaphysical Meaning of…” different stories, holidays, people and more:
