Final answer:
The literary sequence of hearing vs. seeing in ch. 7 suggests that the 144,000 should be seen as figurative.
Step-by-step explanation:
The literary sequence of hearing vs. seeing in chapter 7 suggests that the 144,000 should be interpreted figuratively rather than literally.
In the text provided, there are several references to the limitations of seeing and the importance of interpreting figuratively. In one instance, it states that the prophets could see the future but not entirely. Additionally, there is a mention of how images and stories in medieval cathedrals were meant to be seen and understood, but not everyone could see them.
Based on these examples, it can be inferred that the literary sequence of hearing vs. seeing in chapter 7 suggests that the 144,000 should be seen as a metaphorical or symbolic representation rather than a literal count of individuals.