Quote:I actually understand the WHOLE of the bible that way. There is no way of discriminating which bits to pick and choose as literal, myth or parable, other than to use the prejudice of the reader. The intellectually honest approach is to take it as fiction unless proof of the contrary can be produced.
the usual understanding of the third group is non-literal;
I can't imagine a higher being throwing anyone into eternal torment for not worshipping him, anymore than I can imagine a loving parent throwing their baby in the oven for not understanding complex physics. - Casandra Blake
