Thurman is completely right to reject the “symbolic only” interpretation of the Bible’s promises. Imagine you could go back in time and sit with the slaves and say, “Now, you know, I’m glad you get a lot out of your spirituals. But if you ever get the chance to go to a really good school, you will learn that this life is all there is. There really isn’t any heaven that will make up for all the suffering here. And there isn’t a Judgment Day that will put all things right and address all injustices. But I still want you to live with hope and fearlessness.” You can imagine some saying, “Let me
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