Knowra Biblical typology Biblical typology Biblical typology interprets earlier biblical persons, events, or institutions as patterns that find a fuller realization in later scripture, especially in the New Testament.
Type and antitype : A type is an earlier person, event, or institution understood to prefigure a later counterpart, called its antitype. These paired terms name the earlier pattern and later fulfillment at the heart of typological interpretation.
Adam : Adam is the first human in the Genesis creation narrative and a representative figure in biblical theology. Paul contrasts Adam with Christ as figures whose actions shape humanity's condition.
Paul the Apostle : Paul the Apostle was an early Christian missionary and letter writer whose works became part of the New Testament. His letters explicitly interpret Adam, Israel's wilderness experience, and other scriptures through patterns.
Biblical allegory : Biblical allegory interprets scriptural persons, events, or images as conveying additional spiritual or moral meanings. Unlike typology's recurring historical patterns, allegorical readings need not depend on a later event fulfilling an earlier one.
Biblical theology : Biblical theology traces theological themes and claims across the writings and historical settings of the Bible. Typological patterns have influenced accounts of how biblical themes develop across its books.
Biblical covenant : A biblical covenant is a solemn relationship established by divine promise and obligation between God and people. Covenants can recur as patterns, with later covenants understood to fulfill or surpass earlier ones.
Jesus as the new Adam : The new Adam is a Christian interpretation of Jesus as inaugurating renewed human life in contrast to Adam's disobedience. This is a prominent example of a later figure answering an earlier biblical pattern.
Gospel of Matthew : The Gospel of Matthew is a New Testament narrative of Jesus that frequently connects his life with Israel's scriptures. Its fulfillment formulas make scriptural pattern and fulfillment especially visible.
Biblical exegesis : Biblical exegesis is the systematic interpretation of biblical texts using linguistic, historical, literary, and theological methods. Typology is one interpretive approach within the broader practice of interpreting scripture.
Supersessionism : Supersessionism is the view that the Christian Church has replaced or superseded Israel in God's purposes. Some typological readings have been used to portray Christian fulfillment as displacing Jewish covenant and practice.
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