Why Novels Are Superior to the Bible as Spiritual and Engaging Reading

Many people choose the Bible as their primary source of spiritual guidance and historical lessons. However, there's a compelling argument for why novels may offer a more engaging and emotionally enriching experience. In this article, we explore why novels are superior to the Bible for those seeking meaningful, imaginative, and cohesive stories.

Fiction vs. the Bible: Engaging Imagination and Suspension of Belief

If you're a fiction enthusiast, you probably prefer stories that captivate your imagination and allow you to temporarily suspend your disbelief rather than strain your credulity. The Bible, while historically significant, can often feel tedious and overly literal. It's akin to the Lord of the Rings Appendices with all the magic and charm drained out, leaving you with a dry, regurgitated account that fails to engage the reader. Don't get me wrong; the Bible is a valuable historical text, but if you're seeking rich, imaginative stories, the Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones might serve you better.

Imagine spending your time reading the assembly instructions for an IKEA kitchen trolley, where all the magic and enchantment have been sucked out, compared to losing yourself in the intricacies of Middle-earth or the political intrigue of Westeros. Not only would you gain more spiritual sustenance and joy from reading a modern novel, but you wouldn't be expected to worship the 'thing' once you've completed your journey.

Why Modern Novels Are More Cohesive and Engaging

There's a common belief that one should read an 1800-year-old book like the Bible because modern novels are too fragmented or lack cohesion. However, the assertion that modern novels are more engaging and coherent is backed by numerous examples. Consider the grand narratives of The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones. These works offer a unified yet complex world, full of characters, plot twists, and moral dilemmas, providing a much richer experience than the patchwork of stories in the Bible.

Modern novels are also better at weaving cohesive themes and character development. Imagine reading through the Bible, with its numerous textual gaps and contradictions, compared to the methodically planned and executed plots found in contemporary literary works. Modern novels offer a more satisfying and holistic reading experience, where the narrative unites various elements into a cohesive whole.

Exploring the World Through Reading

Some might argue that reading is less meaningful than exploring the world outside. While travel and real-world experiences are undoubtedly valuable, a library remains one of the most accessible places to explore the world of ideas and cultures. Libraries and various reading materials offer a stepping stone to understanding diverse perspectives and histories that one might not encounter in daily life.

Moreover, reading novels is an enjoyable and enriching activity that can take you on a journey to foreign lands, different eras, and varied cultures. Reading non-fiction alongside fiction can also provide a well-rounded understanding of various cultures and historical contexts. A library, with its earthiness and the tactile experience of printed books, offers a unique and timeless way to engage with knowledge and stories.

The Impact of Novels Compared to the Bible

For many, reading novels provides a sense of escape, leading to feelings of joy and love, ultimately leaving one in a better state of mind. On the other hand, the Bible can be a heavy and burdensome read, especially for those who find its literal interpretation distressing. The first half of the Bible is a collection of stories pasted through time, while the second half seeks to control and manipulate through patriarchal narratives.

The authors of the Bible often aimed to justify or endorse unethical practices, such as slavery, rape, murder, and infanticide. While these issues are significant, it's important to critically examine them and apply a modern ethical lens. Novels, on the other hand, typically present a more hopeful narrative, with a clear and often harmonious resolution. They also offer the added bonus of emotional depth and mutual consent in their romantic scenes, providing a more satisfying and uplifting reading experience.

In conclusion, while the Bible is a crucial historical and spiritual text, novels offer a more engaging, cohesive, and spiritually enriching experience. They allow readers to lose themselves in imaginative worlds and explore complex narratives, providing a richer and more enjoyable reading experience. Whether it's the sweeping epics of The Lord of the Rings or the political intrigue of Game of Thrones, modern novels are a testament to the power of storytelling and imagination.

So, why stick to a book that may leave you feeling weighed down and depressed? Why not explore the vast world of novels, where every possible topic is within your reach? The Bible remains a valuable guide for those who find inspiration in its teachings, but for those seeking a more engaging and emotionally fulfilling reading experience, modern novels are the go-to choice. Happy reading!