In biblical hermeneutics, define and distinguish among a symbol, a parable, and a type based on the primary vehicle (form) each uses and how it conveys spiritual truth.

### Why this is right The definitions distinguish the forms by what they are and how they work: an object represents, a story illustrates, and an earlier biblical reality anticipates a later one. ### The concept These categories can overlap in their use of imagery, but the interpreter should not collapse them. A symbol points to an idea; a parable presents a teaching through a story; a type has a forward-looking relationship to a later reality. The source recommends contextual support and, for types, attention to New Testament explanation. ### What a good answer covers - Define each term accurately. - Identify the characteristic role of object, story, or earlier reality. - Explain that the terms are related but not synonyms. - Note the need for contextual support. ### Remember Object represents, story illustrates, and type anticipates.