List of Religious References

This page lists Once Upon a Time's various references to the Bible.

"Pilot"

 * The priest at Snow White and Prince Charming's wedding is dressed in robes similar to the robes worn by Christian Deacons.
 * The cursed Snow White bears the name "Mary Margaret". Mary is a common Biblical name for women, two of the more famous figures being the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene.
 * Mary Margaret Blanchard, who originally was supposed to be a nun, appears wearing a cross in a necklace.

"The Shepherd"

 * David Nolan, the cursed identity of Prince Charming, a former shepherd, shares his name with King David of the Bible, himself a former shepherd.
 * Prince Charming's mother is named Ruth. Ruth is the name of King David's great-grandmother.
 * Prince Charming is bethrothed to Princess Abigail. King David's third wife was named Abigail.
 * Prince James  duels a man called the "Behemoth", a creature from the Bible.

"An Apple Red as Blood"

 * When Emma Swan, who is often known as "the savior" by Henry Mills, dies, the Dark Curse would end. This is similar to Jesus Christ who is "the savior" that dies to pay for sins.
 * Snow White is tempted with an apple, similar to Eve.
 * When the Evil Queen gives Snow White the poisoned apple, a cross can be seen on Daniel's grave.
 * Regina calls her poison apple a "forbidden fruit" which is an allusion to the story of Adam and Eve.

"Lady of the Lake"

 * Sir Lancelot is nicknamed the Leviathan, a biblical creature.
 * Lancelot utters the words "God in his mercy, lend her grace," which suggest that he believes in God and is Christian.

"In the Name of the Brother"

 * Victor Frankenstein, Gerhardt and their father Alphonse celebrate the Christian-based holiday Christmas.

"Tiny"

 * Prince Charming's real name is David, just like the shepherd-turned-King.
 * David Nolan fights against a giant, similar to the story of David and Goliath.