Hebrew Poetry

Hebrew poetry is characterized by the use of parallelisms (thought rhythm as opposed to sound rhythm or rhyme). Hebrew poets used many different types of parallelism. Several of the main types are most frequently mentioned are given below. However, there are many subclasses that have not been included.

Synonymous (same or similar)

A statement and restatement in the same or similar terms.

Psalm 3:1

.  .  .  O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!

Proverbs 4:13

Hold on to instruction, do not let it go . . .

Proverbs 4:14

Do not set foot on the path of the wicked
or walk in the way of evil men.

Antithetic (opposites)

The second line expresses the same idea in a negative or contrasting manner. This is rare in the prophets but common in Proverbs and Psalms.

Psalm 1:6

For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.

Proverbs 6:20

My son, keep your father’s commands
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.

Synthetic (completion)

The second line adds to the thought of the first line in order to complete it.

Psalm 95:3

For the LORD is the great God,
the great King above all gods.

Chain figure (sorites) is another example of synthetic parallelism:

Joel 1:4

What the locust swarm has left the great locusts have eaten; what the great locusts have left the young locusts have eaten; what the young locusts have left other locusts have eaten.

Proverbs 6:22

. . . When you walk, they will guide you;
when you sleep, they will watch over you;
when you awake, they will speak to you.

Climactic (stair step)

The thought of the second line expands and reinforces the first; there is a logical progression and building of thought.

Psalm 29:1

. . .Ascribe to the LORD, O mighty ones,
ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.

Proverbs 9:10

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Emblematic (picture/imagery)

One line uses a word picture to illustrate the thought stated in the parallel line (either before or after), i.e. One line is to be taken literally but the parallel is figurative.

Psalm 23:1

. . . The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not be in want.

Psalm 22:15

Dogs have surrounded me;
a band of evil men has encircled me

External and internal (intertwined parallelism)

Two different sets of parallel lines are intertwined.

Hear the word of the LORD, you rulers of Sodom;
listen to the law of our God, you people of Gomorrah!

The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul.

The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.

The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

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