Does the Bible Say the Earth is Round or Flat?

The debate about the shape of the Earth has been ongoing for centuries, with some believing it to be flat and others convinced it's round. As Christians, we often wonder what the Bible has to say on this topic. While there are no specific verses that explicitly state the Earth's shape, a closer examination of certain passages can provide insight.

One passage often cited as evidence for a flat Earth is Luke 17:34-36, which describes a time when some people will be taken while others remain behind. Some interpret this to mean that the Lord returns at different times in different parts of the world, with day and night existing simultaneously due to the Earth's curvature. However, this passage can also be seen as referring to the destruction of Jerusalem, rather than the Second Coming.

Another often-cited passage is Job 26:7, which states 'He hangeth the earth upon nothing.' Some have interpreted this as evidence that the Earth has no physical support and therefore must be flat. However, a more nuanced understanding of this verse reveals that God's power is being highlighted, rather than a literal description of the Earth's shape.

Isaiah 40:22 provides an interesting contrast to Job 26:7, as it describes God as sitting 'upon the circle of the earth.' This passage has been interpreted by some as evidence for a round Earth. However, it's essential to consider the cultural and historical context in which the Bible was written.

During the time of the Old Testament, it was widely believed that the Earth sat upon the back of Atlas or other similar means of support. The common understanding of the day was that the Earth was flat, resting on a physical base rather than floating in space.

While there are no specific verses in the Old Testament that describe the Earth's axis tilt, there are many marvelous statements about the Earth that were contrary to the 'science' of the time. For example, Psalm 104:2 describes God as stretching out the heavens like a tent, while Job 26:10 mentions the clouds being suspended above the earth.

In conclusion, while the Bible does not explicitly state the shape of the Earth, certain passages can be interpreted in light of their cultural and historical context. Rather than looking for specific verses that describe the Earth's axis tilt, we should focus on the many wonderful statements about God's creation and His power to sustain it.

Does the bible say the earth is round or flat? proof?