11 Biblical ‘Facts’ That You Won’t Actually Find in the Scriptures

By: Georgia | Last updated: Oct 11, 2023

Taking a closer look at the Bible, it’s clear that some misunderstandings have made their way into common knowledge. We’re here to set the record straight, using nothing but the words on the page to tell the difference between what’s popular belief and what’s actually written in those holy scriptures. 

It’s all about getting to the heart of the Bible, understanding it for what it truly says, and clearing up the myths that have been mistaken for facts.

Adam and Eve's Consumption

The Bible does not indicate that Adam and Eve ate an apple in the Garden of Eden. Instead, it simply mentions the consumption of “the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” 

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Thus, the popular image of an apple is not rooted in biblical texts, but is a product of external interpretations and artistic depictions over the centuries.

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The Creation Timeline

The Bible narrates the creation of the world in six days, followed by a day of rest on the seventh. However, it is not explicit that these days align with the modern 24-hour period.

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It leaves room for interpretation, allowing for the possibility that these “days” might represent longer epochs, rather than literal, consecutive, 24-hour days.

The Rapture's Origin

The term “rapture” does not appear in the Bible. This concept, commonly associated with an eschatological event where Christians are unified with Christ, is not rooted in the biblical text but emerged in later theological discussions.

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Its popularity and widespread acceptance are traced back to interpretations that are external to the biblical narrative.

Number of Wise Men

The Bible recounts the visit of “wise men from the East” to Jesus but does not specify their number. 

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The popular belief that there were three wise men likely stems from the three gifts presented to Jesus. This numeric association is not explicitly stated in the biblical text but is a later interpretative addition.

Jonah’s Predicament

The Book of Jonah in the Bible speaks of Jonah being swallowed by a “great fish.” There is no direct reference to this creature being a whale. 

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The original Hebrew text uses the term “dag gadol,” which translates to a large or great fish, leaving the specific species or classification unmentioned and open to interpretation.

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Noah’s Ark’s Animal Admission

The Bible specifies that clean animals entered Noah’s ark in groups of seven, not just pairs. 

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The popular narrative of animals boarding two by two is not entirely accurate, as it omits the distinction between clean and unclean animals and their respective numbers, as outlined in the Genesis narrative.

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David’s Weapon

David’s defeat of Goliath is often attributed to a slingshot, but the Bible specifically mentions a sling.

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This differentiation is essential, as a sling is a distinct weapon, simpler yet effective, that played a crucial role in this historical confrontation, as per the biblical account.

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The Trinity’s Formation

The concept of the Trinity, though central to many Christian denominations, is not explicitly defined in the Bible. 

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References to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are present, but a concrete elaboration of the trinitarian concept is not articulated in the biblical text and emerged in the writings of early Christian theologians.

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Job’s Restoration

Job, despite enduring significant suffering, did not lose everything. The Bible recounts that Job was ultimately restored and received twice as much as he initially had.

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This narrative emphasizes a transition from profound adversity to an eventual state of increased prosperity, highlighting a theme of restoration in the midst of hardship.

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Satan’s Punishment

The Bible does not portray Satan as ruling over hell. Instead, it is described as a place of punishment for Satan and his followers. 

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This distinction is essential to understand the biblical depiction of hell, contrasting significantly with popular imagery and narratives that suggest Satan’s dominion over this realm.

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Jesus’ Birth Date

The Bible does not offer a specific date for Jesus’ birth. The association with December 25th is rooted in tradition rather than scripture.

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This absence demonstrates the biblical focus on the event’s spiritual significance rather than its chronological placement.

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