Of course these were not metaphors.
But ritual is a form of language that takes it color, content, and meaning from culture and tradition. And with the passage of time and the progress of civilization societies mark distinctions between various forms of rituals which while accepted at an earlier time and age are no longer considered proper.
The supreme sacrifice of the Son of Man on the Cross brought forth for the ages the Holy Eucharist, the bloodless sacrifice at the Catholic Mass. The celebration of this sacrifice through the rituals of sacred and celestial music, and forms of worships uplifts the soul and allows us to glorify our God. Thus soaring architecture, stained glass windows, sculptures, paintings, and Gregorian chants are all part of this rich tapestry of acknowledging and giving thanks to God in the context of the Mass. Everything else is drivel.
I recommend you read Romans, Hebrews, Peter & Jude.
shalom b'SHEM Yah'shua HaMashiach He died to sin once for all
SEE Rom. 6:10; Heb. 7:27; 9:12; 10:10; 1 Pet. 3:18; Jude 1:3, 5