Christianity. Which way do the gates to heaven open? Toward yourself, away from yourself?

The gates to heaven in Christianity are spiritual and symbolic, rather than literal. Therefore, it is not possible to say definitively which way the gates open.

The Bible does not give a clear answer on this question, but some passages imply that the gates open toward the believer. In the book of Revelation, John describes a vision of heaven in which he sees the gates of the New Jerusalem, which is said to be the home of the redeemed. He writes: “And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass” (Revelation 21:21). Here, the gates are described as being open and inviting, and the imagery implies that they open toward the believer.

In addition, the Bible often uses the imagery of a door or gate to represent a way of entering into a spiritual relationship with God. For example, Jesus says, “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved” (John 10:9). This suggests that the gates of heaven open toward the believer, allowing them to enter into a relationship with God.

In conclusion, while the Bible does not provide a definitive answer on this question, the imagery of the gates of heaven being open and inviting, as well as the use of the door or gate as a metaphor for entering into a spiritual relationship with God, suggests that the gates open toward the believer.