What is biblical typology?

Quick answer

Biblical typology is the study of "types" — OT persons, events, or institutions that prefigure NT realities, especially Christ. Adam, Moses, the Passover lamb, the temple, the brass serpent all foreshadow what becomes fully real in Jesus.

Paul calls Adam a "type of the one to come" (Romans 5:14). Hebrews works extensively with the temple as type of Christ’s priestly work.

Typology is not allegory. The OT events really happened; their meaning unfolds further when Christ comes.

Reading Scripture with typology in view shows the unity of the Bible — both Testaments tell one story climaxing in Christ.

Related
Romans 5:14 What is the Old Testament about? How do I read the Bible?
← All answers Read the Bible

Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.