In Our Time: Typology
BBC Radio 4 | Released: May 15, 2025
Host: Melvyn Bragg

Overview

In this enlightening episode of In Our Time, host Melvyn Bragg delves into the concept of typology, a theological and literary method where elements in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) are seen as prefigurations or "types" of figures and events in the New Testament. Joined by experts Miri Rubin, Harris Bilane Mundby, and Sophie Lunn Rockliffe, the discussion traverses the historical emergence of typology, its intricate connections with Hellenistic philosophy, its profound impact on art and literature, and its enduring legacy in contemporary thought.

1. Understanding Typology

Definition and Origin

Typology originates from the Greek word "type," which implies something that is endlessly repeatable and ideal, much like a cookie cutter shaping cookies from dough. Harris Bilane Mundby explains:

“Typology comes from the word type, which is a Greek word that arises from the verb 'to strike,' like striking a coin or marking the shape of a cookie... producing a whole lot from one original” (02:17).

Recurrent Types

Miri Rubin emphasizes the essence of typology:

“The key is the recurrent types.” (02:17)

Typology involves identifying recurring and idealized patterns in literature and art, which can be endlessly reproduced and serve as moral or spiritual exemplars.

2. Historical Emergence of Typology

Early Practice in the Hebrew Bible

Mundby highlights that typology is evident within the Hebrew Bible itself, where figures like Moses and David serve as archetypes for later interpretations:

“Later prophets... refer back to Moses as the archetype of a national leader...” (02:30)

Hellenistic Jewish Community

The practice flourished in the Hellenistic Jewish community in Alexandria, merging Jewish scriptural traditions with Greek philosophical thought, particularly Platonism. Philo of Alexandria, a first-century Jewish commentator, exemplified this synthesis by interpreting the Hebrew Bible through a Platonic lens to foster moral improvement (03:37).

3. Typology and Hellenism

Platonism and Scriptural Interpretation

Platonism posits that the observable world contains ideal, eternal forms perceptible by reason. Philo of Alexandria applied this philosophy to the Hebrew Scriptures, seeking to uncover these eternal forms within the biblical narratives (03:37).

Moral and Philosophical Integration

Instead of focusing solely on the literal events, Philo identified Platonic ideals in the scriptures, such as interpreting Cain and Abel not just as a story of fratricide but as a reflection of the duality of good and evil within humans (04:55).

4. Typology in the Hebrew and Christian Traditions

Connection to the New Testament

Typology became a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, allowing Christians to interpret Hebrew Bible figures and events as prefigurations of Jesus and Christian doctrines. For instance, Paul the Apostle referred to Adam as a type of Christ (07:03).

Purpose and Debate

Typology served multiple purposes:

• Theological Affirmation: Affirming that Christian teachings were foretold in Jewish scriptures.
• Apologetic Tool: Addressing criticisms by interpreting seemingly fantastical Old Testament stories allegorically.
• Doctrinal Development: Shaping debates within the Church about the nature of scripture and the relationship between Judaism and Christianity (09:02).

Melvin Bragg notes the contentious debates surrounding typology, such as differing interpretations of Noah's Ark as either a representation of a narrow or broad Church (09:38).

5. Typology in Art and Literature

Early Christian Art

Typology was fundamental in early Christian art, especially in funerary contexts. Scenes like Jonah emerging from the whale or Daniel in the lion's den were depicted alongside Christological imagery, reinforcing the salvific narratives (16:36).

Medieval and Renaissance Art

During the Middle Ages, typology became central to artistic expression. For example, stained glass windows in King's College Chapel feature pairs of Old and New Testament scenes, illustrating corresponding types (21:03).

Influence on Literature

Typology deeply influenced literature, inspiring authors to weave biblical parallels into their narratives. Harris Bilane Mundby cites Toni Morrison's Beloved and John Steinbeck's East of Eden as examples where typological themes enrich the storytelling by connecting personal and communal struggles to biblical archetypes (35:33).

6. Typology in Liturgy and Ritual

Liturgical Practices

Typology permeates Christian liturgy, where Old Testament rituals are mirrored in New Testament practices. Baptism, for instance, reflects Noah's Ark and the Israelites' crossing of the Red Sea, symbolizing purification and deliverance (25:00).

Ash Wednesday Rituals

Sophie Lunn Rockliffe explains how Ash Wednesday incorporates typological elements by having believers receive ashes in the shape of a cross, referencing Old Testament symbols of repentance (15:53).

7. Medieval Developments

Expansion and Polemics

In the medieval period, typology expanded beyond theologians to preachers and artists. It often carried a polemical edge, contrasting figures like Sarah and Hagar to symbolize the Church and Judaism, respectively, reinforcing theological distinctions and sometimes fostering anti-Jewish sentiments (21:03).

Guides and Reference Works

Medieval scholars produced extensive commentaries and glossaries to aid in typological interpretation, making it accessible to a broader range of clergy and influencing a wide array of literary and artistic works (42:00).

8. Reformation and Modern Usage

Protestant Adaptations

During the Reformation, typology was harnessed to reshape Christian practice and identity. Protestants emphasized typological readings to distinguish themselves from Catholic traditions, often focusing on Old Testament types to underpin new liturgical forms (23:35).

New World Colonies

Puritans in North America employed typology to model their new societies after biblical narratives, naming towns like Salem and Paradise to reflect Old Testament ideals and envisioning themselves as a new Israel (24:05).

9. Legacy and Contemporary Perspectives

Post-Holocaust Reflections

The 20th century brought critical reassessments of typology, especially regarding its role in fostering supersessionism—the belief that Christianity supersedes Judaism. Vatican II and other modern theological movements sought to reinterpret typology to promote Jewish-Christian harmony rather than replacement (39:32).

Innovative Artistic Representations

Modern artists and theologians experiment with typology to reflect contemporary values. For instance, recent depictions in Catholic colleges present Judaism and Christianity as equal traditions, emphasizing mutual respect and understanding (41:33).

Ongoing Influence in Literature and Theology

Typology continues to inspire contemporary writers and theologians, offering a rich framework for exploring existential and moral themes. However, there is concern about the accessibility of typological knowledge to modern audiences who may lack the extensive scriptural and historical background that earlier generations possessed (37:53).

Notable Quotes

• Harris Bilane Mundby (02:17): “Typology comes from the word type, which is a Greek word that arises from the verb 'to strike,' like striking a coin or marking the shape of a cookie... producing a whole lot from one original.”

• Miri Rubin (02:17): “The key is the recurrent types.”

• Sophie Lunn Rockliffe (07:03): “Paul is very clearly saying that right from the start of the biblical narrative, Christ is there.”

• Melvin Bragg (09:02): “There's a great deal of debate in the Church... about what should constitute Scripture.”

• Harris Bilane Mundby (21:03): “Typology is at the very heart of medieval art, and we see it in all our museums.”

• Melvin Bragg (27:21): “One of the things that is absolutely fascinating about this is that it provides... a key to thinking.”

Conclusion

The episode on typology offers a comprehensive exploration of how biblical narratives have been interwoven with philosophical thought, artistic expression, and religious practice throughout history. From its roots in Hellenistic Judaism to its profound impact on medieval art and its ongoing relevance in modern theology and literature, typology remains a testament to the enduring power of interpretive frameworks in shaping human understanding of the divine and the mundane.

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