What do Epicurean philosophers think about the Bible?

The Epicurean philosophy is an ancient Greek school of thought that was founded by Epicurus in the third century BCE. Epicurean philosophers believed that the ultimate goal of human life was to achieve happiness and peace through the avoidance of pain and the pursuit of pleasure. While the Epicureans did not directly address the Bible, their views on religion and the nature of the gods were distinct from those presented in the Bible.

Epicurean philosophy held that the gods were not actively involved in the affairs of the world, and that they did not interfere with human life. Instead, the gods existed in a state of perfect happiness and tranquility, and were not concerned with the actions of mortals. This view is in contrast to the Bible, which presents a God who is actively involved in the world and who takes an interest in the lives of humans.

Furthermore, Epicurean philosophers believed that religion should be approached with skepticism, and that it was important to question religious beliefs and practices. They believed that religion was often used as a tool to control people, and that it was important to be free from the fear of death and the afterlife that was often used to manipulate people.

In terms of morality, the Epicureans believed that it was important to live a virtuous and ethical life, not because of a fear of divine punishment or a desire for reward in the afterlife, but because it was the best way to achieve happiness and peace in this life.