Exactly how do religionists decide which parts of their 'holy books' should be taken literally?

Question

How, exactly, do they determine which parts should be 'fiddled with'?

Answer 1

They believe as they are taught to believe. They do not read to learn they read because they are told to read for a reward. They take literally the parts that works for them.

Answer 2

Not sure what "fiddled" means, sorry.

We take those parts literally that are meant literally. For instance, if a story begins "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who...." then we know that there is no real man, it's a comparison to show us something.

If, on the other hand it says "Thou shalt not kill", well then, we know that is mean exactly as it says.

Answer 3

we shouldnt make a decision to which should be taken literally all of it should be taken literally not parts, but knowing that after the blood of Jesus we know that that was our mediator. and we no longer have to use goats or animals for sacrificial purposes. we should, being born again and reading it know that if we allow the holy spirit to direct us and discern for us as far as taking out one eye if it defends you i am sure we all know not to pluck that eye out of your socket. its not just common sense its infuenced by the holy spirit so we use what is called wisdom

Answer 4

Based on current politics and prejudices. Why and how do you think "holy books" were compiled in the first place?

Answer 5

I think most intelligent people can differentiate between things that pertained to the era they were written and the modern day

Answer 6

I believe most of it has been fiddled with...quite disturbing actually.

Answer 7

all the parts that are not metaphors