Did the Bible predict computers?

The Bible is a complex and multifaceted text that has been interpreted in many different ways over the centuries. Some people have even claimed that the Bible contains predictions of modern technology, including computers. But is there any truth to this claim? Let's take a closer look.

One of the most commonly cited passages in this context is found in the book of Daniel, which describes a vision of a future time when knowledge will increase. The passage says, "But you, Daniel, roll up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge" (Daniel 12:4). Some people interpret this passage as a prediction of the information age, suggesting that it foretold the rise of computers and the internet.

However, this interpretation is highly speculative and lacks any solid evidence. While the passage does suggest a time of increased knowledge, it does not specifically mention computers or any other modern technology. Moreover, the passage is highly symbolic and can be interpreted in many different ways.

Another passage that is sometimes cited as a prediction of computers is found in the book of Revelation, which describes a beast with the number 666. The passage says, "This calls for wisdom. Let the person who has insight calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. That number is 666" (Revelation 13:18). Some people have interpreted this passage as a reference to computer technology, suggesting that the number 666 represents the binary code used by computers.

However, this interpretation is also highly speculative and lacks any solid evidence. While the passage does describe a mysterious number, it does not specifically mention computers or any other modern technology. Moreover, the passage is highly symbolic and can be interpreted in many different ways.

In general, it is important to be cautious when interpreting the Bible as a prediction of modern technology. While the Bible contains many prophetic passages that have been fulfilled in various ways over the centuries, it is not a crystal ball that can predict the future with perfect accuracy.

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Jamie Larson
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