Uncovering symbolic meaning and metaphors

Biblical symbolism emerges as a sophisticated element in Genesis 12-25, contributing to the richness and depth of the narrative.
The number seven, seen in the repetitions of phrases or ideas seven times, signifies a complete or perfect idea, underscoring the theme of divine providence.
Names in the texts often carry symbolic meaning—Abraham (‘father of many’), Sarah (‘princess’), and Isaac (‘he laughs’)—being prime examples.
Barrenness, as seen in Sarah’s case, may symbolise spiritual desolation; however, its resolution, such as Isaac’s birth, often denotes divine blessing or miracle.

Metaphors in Genesis 12-25 are part of its rich literary fabric, offering profound insights into its characters and themes.
Critical metaphors include stars and dust, as seen in Genesis 13:16 and Genesis 15:5, where God promises Abraham descendants as numerous as these.
Sacrificial animals in God’s covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:9-17) signify a binding agreement, underscoring the gravity of the divine promise.
Fire and smoke—the flaming torch and smoking fire pot (Genesis 15:17)—are metaphors of divine presence and power.

Figurative language in Genesis 12-25 accentuates important narrative elements and the theological issues the text addresses.
Anthropomorphism, such as describing God as ‘walking’ in a ‘cool of the day’, is a poetic way of presenting the divine-human interaction.
The laughing of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 17:17; 18:12-15) is a distinctive figurative element, marking both human skepticism and divine fulfillment.
When God tells Abraham to ‘lift up your eyes’, it is richly figurative, implying an insight of faith to see beyond present circumstances.

Typology refers to characters, events, or institutions in the Genesis narrative that prefigure future ones in the biblical canon.
Lamb provided by God for Abraham’s sacrifice (Genesis 22:13) is seen as a typology of Christ’s sacrifice in Christian interpretation.
Isaac’s willingness to be sacrificed, without any recorded resistance, forms a typology for Christ’s obedience unto death.
  The three heavenly visitors (Genesis 18) who foretell the birth of Isaac are seen as a type of the Holy Trinity in Christian theology.