Charlotte Bronte's own religious upbringing is very significant to the text. Her Father was a clergyman and so Charlotte could not avoid the influence of religion whilst writing.
The first important day in Jane's life is when she meets the Reverend Brocklehurst. When she meets the reverend, we learn that Jane already has a wide knowledge of the Bible and states which parts she likes.
We first come across religious symbolism when Jane goes to stay at Lowood Institution. The Land of the Philistines was a hostile and harsh environment for Abraham much as Lowood Institution is for Jane. The living conditions that Jane had to put up with at the Institution are dreadful with such things as the lack of food and the emotional and physical abuse Jane has to go through. However Jane keeps her faith in God, just as Abraham did.
In the novel there is also religious symbolism regarding the Biblical character Samson. Just as Samson was charmed by Delilah's clever trickery, Mr Rochester is charmed by Bertha's beauty, not realising that she was mad.
Jane questions God when Helen is on her deathbed. Helen does not explain exactly where she is going i.e. Heaven, but leaves Jane to wonder what she means.
"But where are you going to, Helen? Can you see? Do you know?- .
"I believe; I have faith: I am going to God."" .
"Where is God? What is God?- .
"My maker and yours; who will never destroy what he created.I am sure there is a future state; I believe God is good: I can resign my immortal part to him without any misgiving. God is my father; God is my friend: I love him; I believe he loves me."".
In conclusion, I can see that the book contains a lot of religious symbolism. Jane's first important day is when she meets the Reverend, and even when times are hard she keeps her faith in God. Also certain characters, such as Mr. Rochester are likened to Biblical characters, this use of the Bible helps us to understand certain characters in the novel, more easily.
