[msf92497]

If it isn't meant to be read as it is written, then what truth is in it?

[spinestein]

I know of many written works that hold great truth and meaning to many people, including myself, that are specifically not meant to be read literally, but rather satirically, or sarcastically, or (as in the Bible) metaphorically or as parable to be used as meaningful lessons of life.

The story of the Good Samaritan, for example, is told by Jesus Christ himself and he admits the story isn't true but the reason he tells it is to make a point about moral obligation. I imagine Jesus standing there after telling the story and rolling his eyes as a few of the audience members pester him with questions about the validity of telling a story that isn't literally true.