Come Follow Me: Thoughts to Keep in Mind: Reading Poetry in the Old Testament

Come Follow Me: Thoughts to Keep in Mind: Reading Poetry in the Old Testament

Preparation for reading the Books of Poetry found in the Bible.

You will see much parallelism in Hebrew poetry. (Some of the other elements are lost in the translation.)

Some of the examples of parallelism shown in this lesson, could be rewritten as metaphors.

Sometimes parallel phrases can be repetitious with variation, in order to bring more clarity to the reader. Sometimes they can be contrasting, to show the reader two possible difference outcomes or scenarios.

Question for self while reading: How does parallelism help you understand the writer’s message?

Isaiah 52:1: There is strength and power associated with the covenants we make in the temple and with the temple garment itself.

Proverbs 15:1 When we see two huge differences in outcome, we can determine to be kinder in our interactions with others.

Read the Bible’s poetry with the Spirit. Slow down to enjoy both the language and the message. Pay attention to imagery, and to the emotions that the imagery evokes. Look for the imagery, symbols, and truths that teach you of Jesus Christ and to your feelings about Him. Let the Holy Ghost guide your study and your learning. Relax and enjoy the experience of poetry and the richness of personal testimony that it conveys.

Wisdom Literature is also found in poetry.

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