Mary Hanson
Dec 1, 2024
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In Unity, we consider the Bible and its stories metaphysically—that is, beyond the physical or obvious. When we look at a familiar text metaphysically, we consider what it tells us about the nature of reality and we contemplate how it applies to us, right now.
The Bible’s stories are both inspired and inspiring, and they represent a template for our own lives. (The same can be said of some other sacred literature.) In this season, the Christmas story is especially inspiring.
Let’s look briefly at some of the well-known symbols of the Christmas story, from a Unity perspective.
- The angel Gabriel represents the harbinger that announces the coming of great good into your life. It tells you that new ideas and new manifestations are ready to be born through you.
- The inn represents your soul, which can be so filled with worldly concerns (or unhelpful habits) that there is no room for new ideas.
- The infant Jesus represents the birth of the highest and best in you -- and in each of us. We nurture and protect this realization until it matures as master of our lives.
- The shepherds represent a receptive attitude. We are willing to be influenced by new realizations of the Christ.
- The wise men represent our latent talents and abilities. If we follow our spiritual insights and motivation, which is symbolized by a star, then we will be led to a new life of fulfillment.
Metaphysical interpretation can be fun and illuminating, but it can sometimes feel distant—like a mental process of word-play. Keep in mind that it is a vehicle to discover (or rediscover) what the Bible stories means to you. How you live your life. In this moment.
We encourage you to do your own interpretation. Make it real for you. By looking at the Christmas story metaphysically as well as conventionally, you can not only change how you think about it but also how you feel about it. You can open your heart more fully to the birth of the infant Jesus, in you.
-Mary Hanson
Licensed Unity Teacher (LUT), Unity Spiritual Center of Springfield