Final answer:
The Old Testament is best understood allegorically, according to the Epistle of Barnabas. This is in line with medieval thinkers like Maimonides who advocated for figurative interpretation, and aligns with the early Christian approach to biblical texts.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Epistle of Barnabas, the Old Testament is best understood allegorically rather than literally. The belief in allegorical interpretation of the Old Testament parallels views held by medieval thinkers such as Maimonides, who argued against biblical literalism and for figurative understanding to get closer to God. The tales within the Hebrew Bible, as noted by scholars and religious traditions, cannot usually be verified empirically, and some have precursors in earlier Mesopotamian legends.
Early Christianity, recognizing the common ground of shared stories between Judaism and other traditions, often employed allegorical methods to interpret the Hebrew Bible, especially to argue the fulfillment of prophecies in the life of Jesus Christ. This approach also resonates with the views expressed in the New Testament, where texts like the Epistle to the Hebrews downplay the earthly in favor of heavenly or spiritual interpretations.