I'm in the process of figuring this out and it's changing my life every day.
I used to think the Bible was a collection of stories from the past that we're supposed to have faith in to be "saved". Now I realize it's actually the best map of reality as experienced by human beings every written. Once you see it you don't have to suspend disbelief. It actually, truly is real in the deepest sense of the word. Every atheist would believe if they knew what it meant.
Try to see beyond the stories and look for patterns. Once you notice the patterns you'll see them everywhere. Once you can understand the symbolism, it's like a whole new world unfolds. The Bible is like reading the code to our reality.
I'd recommend Jonathan Pageau on YouTube and studying the Kabbalah in conjunction with scripture. It's not for the faint of heart. You're stepping into the role of Adam.
a) Thanks for sharing! Beautiful thoughts & always enjoyable to share epiphanies with people!
b) Really focus on / be aware of & think about real life parallels; as you read the bible, think about when / where you've seen or heard of similar situations. It helps if you have a more modern translation too, IMO. Adultery? Jealousy? War? Hate? Love? Anger? Parents' love for their child? Childs' love for their parents? Greed? Gluttony? Deception? Backstabbing? Betrayal? Sin?
There is LITERALLY nothing new under the sun.
Hope that makes sense what I'm trying to say..... :-)
c) There is a whole ton of real, concrete, physical historical evidence supporting much of the bible. I can post a few specifics if you want, but just search 'Bible proof / historical / archaeological" and such, and you should find quite a few books.
The bible is no-BS, honest to God, real HISTORY.
Mind-blowing....