Old Testament Symbols

The scriptures use symbols to teach important concepts. Understanding the symbols found within the Old Testament can enrich your reading experience, deepen your understanding of gospel truths, and enhance your appreciation for the words of the Lord.

Some symbols can be interpreted in different ways. It is important to remember that correct interpretations of symbols will build upon what has been clearly taught by other scriptures and our Church leaders.

Here are four symbols that you will encounter in this month’s Come, Follow Me reading.

Olive Branch

Olive trees are mentioned frequently in the scriptures. Olive trees symbolize the house of Israel, and “the olive branch is universally regarded as a symbol of peace.”¹ An olive branch is the first plant mentioned after the Flood (see Genesis 8:11), symbolizing that peace had returned to the earth as the floodwaters receded.

Rainbow

After the Flood, God placed a rainbow in the sky (see Genesis 9:12–17). The rainbow was more than a beautiful sight; it was a symbol of God’s promise that the earth would never again be covered in a flood and that the Lord would again dwell on earth (see Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 [in the Bible appendix]).

Ram

When Abraham was asked to sacrifice Isaac, God provided a ram to be sacrificed in Isaac’s place (see Genesis 22:13–14). As President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor in the First Presidency, explained: “Because of our sins and our mortality, we … are condemned to death. When all other hope is gone, our Father in Heaven provides the Lamb of God, and we are saved by his sacrifice.”²

Well of Water

an actor portraying Jesus sitting at Jacob’s well

In Genesis 26, you will read about Isaac’s wells. Water often symbolizes our dependence on the Savior, Jesus Christ. “As water is essential to sustain physical life, the Savior and His teachings (living water) are essential for eternal life.”³