One thing described in terms of some other thing. Substituting an inoffensive word for a possibly harsh or crude one. The literal meaning is opposite the real meaning. But figurative meanings are not second best or inferior or anything to apologize for. They are often better, closer to the truth.
Symbolic meaning is usually more powerful and profound.
As the Bible discusses spiritual truths, we should expect to find figurative language more often in the Bible than in a history textbook. The evidence is clear that parts of the Bible are meant figuratively, and we are rejecting the Word of God if we refuse to consider the possibility of figures of speech. We should not refuse to understand a method the Bible itself uses. It is dishonest to reject figurative meanings when they were intended, just as it is dishonest to read them where they shouldn't be. We should not be hasty to seek a figurative interpretation, nor should we be hasty to reject one.