Data Over Dogma

Episode 57: Does the Bible say the Earth is Flat?

May 6, 2024

The podcast explores the surprising theory of a flat Earth connected to Biblical teachings. It discusses ancient cosmology, firmaments, and historical views on Earth's structure. The hosts also revisit a previous error, delve into interpretations of biblical texts, and challenge conventional understanding of Jesus riding into Jerusalem. The discussion highlights the psychology behind flat Earth beliefs and the evolution of scientific acceptance.

54:50

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The podcast explores the possible origin of the flat-Earth belief in the Bible and its implications for Bible-believing Christians.

The revisited interpretation of Matthew's depiction of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on two animals highlights the importance of embracing ambiguity in ancient texts.

Deep dives

Matthew's Descriptions of Jesus Riding on Two Animals

Matthew's description of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on two animals has sparked debate among scholars. Initially, the text suggested that Jesus was sitting on both a donkey and a colt simultaneously, which led to varied interpretations and historical visual representations. Further analysis, prompted by scholarly arguments, indicates that Matthew may have intentionally crafted the narrative to allow for differing interpretations. The ambiguity surrounding the pronoun 'on them' in the text serves a rhetorical role, inviting multiple perspectives on the number of animals Jesus rode into Jerusalem.

Introduction

2min

Exploring Flat Earth Theory Through Biblical Perspectives

20min

Convenience and Freshness of Factor Meals and Podcast Recommendation

2min

Interpreting Biblical Texts on the Shape of the Earth

12min

Revisiting Interpretations of Jesus Riding into Jerusalem on Two Animals

3min

Interpreting Jesus' Representation on Animals in Christian Artwork

6min

Exploring Ambiguity in Biblical Prophecy Fulfillment

11min

Exclusive Content, Sponsor Ads, and History Insights

2min

It's perhaps the most surprising conspiracy theory to pop up in this century. Humans have known that our planet is a sphere for literally thousands of years. Why, in a day of more advanced science than ever before, would people suddenly abandon that knowledge? Well, before our collective eyeballs all get too strained from rolling them, let's all pause to look at the probable origin of the flat-Earth insistence: The Bible.

Does the Bible actually say that the Earth is flat? If it does, are readers meant to take that claim seriously? Are Bible-believing Christians obligated to deny the sphere?

Then, it's Mea Culpa time! Dan McClellan has been convinced that a position he has espoused on social media and on this very podcast was incorrect. It's a minor thing with very little theological importance, but it actually has some interesting implications. It's to do with two jackasses. Or maybe three, if you count Dan.

For early access to an ad-free version of every episode of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and an opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:

https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma

https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPod

https://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices