The Bible does not explicitly state that the Earth is flat. The Scriptures were written from the perspective of the human experience and use phenomenological language, which describes the world as it appears from an earthly viewpoint. Thus, the Bible speaks in terms that were accessible and understandable to people in ancient times.

For instance, Isaiah 40:22 says, “It is He who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in.” The term “circle of the earth” has been interpreted in various ways, but it doesn’t necessarily imply a flat earth. Instead, it could suggest the appearance of the horizon in all directions from a central point.

The Bible’s primary focus is on spiritual truths and moral guidance rather than providing a scientific textbook on the physical properties of the universe. Its aim is to lead people to a relationship with God, to live in harmony with His will, and to offer hope and redemption through Jesus Christ.

The Bible does not explicitly discuss the astronomical model of the solar system or the physical relationship between the Earth and the Sun in terms of orbital mechanics as understood by modern science. Instead, the Bible contains descriptions of the sun, moon, and stars that reflect the observational perspective of the ancient writers, focusing on the role of these celestial bodies in marking time and seasons, and in serving as signs.

For example, Psalm 19:4-6 poetically describes the sun: “In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat.” This passage uses figurative language to celebrate the glory of God as demonstrated through the sun’s daily journey across the sky, rather than providing a scientific account of solar motion.

Similarly, Ecclesiastes 1:5 states, “The sun rises, and the sun goes down, and hastens to the place where it rises,” describing the sun’s apparent movement as observed from Earth. This observation is from a geocentric perspective, common to ancient cultures, which perceived the sun as moving around the Earth.

The primary purpose of the Bible is to convey spiritual truths, moral guidance, and the relationship between God and humanity, rather than to serve as a scientific textbook. Its references to natural phenomena are intended to express the majesty and order of God’s creation and to relate to the everyday experiences and understandings of its ancient readers.

The Bible uses poetic and figurative language to describe God’s creation, including the structure of the Earth. An example of this figurative language can be found in 1 Samuel 2:8, which says, “For the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and on them he has set the world.” Additionally, Job 9:6 mentions, “He shakes the earth from its place and makes its pillars tremble.”

These references to “pillars” are metaphorical, reflecting the ancient Hebrews’ perspective and their way of expressing concepts about the world and God’s sovereignty over creation. They express the belief in God’s power and foundation of the earth, not a literal scientific explanation of the Earth’s composition or position in space.

The Scriptures often communicate truths about God, humanity, and the relationship between Creator and creation through imagery and poetic language, aiming to convey spiritual truths rather than detailed physical descriptions of the natural world. The primary purpose of biblical text is to reveal God’s character, His interactions with humanity, and His plans for redemption and salvation.