A Beginner's Handbook on Parsing and Poetry - …...A Beginner's Handbook on Parsing and Poetry...

A Beginner's Handbookon

Parsing and Poetryvvvvvvvv

Biblical Hebrew Parsing Cluesand

Characteristics of Hebrew Poetry

By

Dr. Hermann J. Austel

edited by

Lee Carl Finley, PhDJuly 2015

Provided that no profit is made from the sale of any copies, individual copies may be made for personal and/orecclesiastical purposes only, provided the copies are of the work in full, and that no part of this work is omitted. Aside fromthis, this document is not to be reproduced manually, electronically, or in any other form, nor are these copies to be sold inany form for profit.

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Contents

Introduction to the Author 4

Biblical Hebrew Parsing Clues 6

Introduction 5I. Qamets 6II. Pathah 8III. Hiriq 10IV. Sere 12V. Seghol 14VI. Holem 15VII. Shurug 16VIII. Qibbuts 17IX. Shewa 18X. Infinitives and Participles 20XI./XII. Odd Verbal Forms/The Interrogative Particle 21Organization of this Work 22Changes/Edits 22Acknowledgments/References 24Post Script--Why Learn to Parse at all? 25

Characteristics of Hebrew Poetry 26

Introduction 26

I. Characteristics 27A. No Deliberate RhymeB. No Deliberate MeterC. Thought ParallelismD. The Regular Use of Word PairsE. Exalted and Unique Style

II. Biblical Examples and Explanations 29A. Synonymous ParallelismB. Antithetic ParallelismC. Ladder Sequence D. Emblematic Parallelism E. Synthetic Parallelism F. ClimacticG. Acrostic H. Additional Notes

Scripture Index 37

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Introduction to the Work and its Author--Hermann J Austel (1927-2011)

“A Los Angeles native, he majored in Chemistry at UCLA. He then graduated from the Los Angeles BaptistTheological Seminary (MDiv). He completed his PhD (Semitic Studies) at UCLA. Austel credited his bent forlanguage study to growing up in the bilingual home of German immigrants.

He imbued his work, family, and ministry with a vision of patient and compassionate leadership both asDean and Hebrew Professor of the Northwest Baptist Seminary, Northwest Baptist Seminary (now known asCorban University School of Ministry) and as the Old Testament Editor of the New American Standard Bible(NASB).

He co-authored Kings in the Expositor's Bible Commentary. He also contributed to the New InternationalDictionary of Old Testament Theology and Exegesis, and other books, and journals. He was among the firstchosen to analyze important Qumran manuscripts.

His scholarly grasp of the biblical languages inspired six decades of students, pastors, scholars, andcolleagues. Jim Krames (PhD) of the William Carey International University based in Pasadena, California,said, “I learned to train graduate students to exegete the Hebrew text from him. I am not alone. Manystudents he trained now teach and administrate at universities and seminaries in the USA and abroad. Evenin recent years I’ve sought his counsel.”

Bible scholar, Richard Patterson (PhD), an early colleague and friend, remembers him as “a well-respectedscholar, and a teacher deeply concerned for his students. He was also a loving husband, father and godlygentleman. His life impacted so many.”

(Taken from the AssistNews website, 10 October 2014: http://www.assistnews.net/Stories/2011/s11060014.htm)

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I attended Northwest Baptist Seminary from 1987 to 1990. This is where I came to appreciate thescholarship of Dr Austel. Dr. Austel was a gentle man who had a deep devotion to the scriptures andtruly enjoyed teaching Hebrew. I was taught both Elementary and Intermediate Hebrew by Dr Austel.Although a very learned man, he would take time to explain the basics of the Hebrew language to hisstudents and was genuinely satisfied when they succeeded. I will never forget his humorous side aswell, as he handed back a quiz with a smiley face drawn at the top.

Dr Austel was also an encouragement to me in my study of biblical Aramaic. In spring quarter, therewere no other students interested in taking beginning Aramaic. I ended up taking Aramaic individually,meeting one-to-one on a weekly basis with Dr. Austel. I also took an advanced independent studyHebrew reading course with Dr. Austel, where he assigned passages for translation and then would sitpatiently while this beginning student would read his translation of the passage under discussion. It wasthere I came to love the work of translation.

I enjoyed my time with him, discussing various linguistic issues. He had studied most of the Middle-eastern Semitic languages, including Ugaritic and Akkadian as well as Syriac and Coptic. I rememberonce his regret for not getting to study Ge'ez (Semitic Ethiopic). He was a true biblical scholar, stilldesirous to continue his learning. By the grace of God I can only hope to aspire to be more like him inmy understanding of Hebrew and Aramaic.

Lee Carl FinleyFebruary 2015

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Biblical Hebrew Parsing CluesDr Hermann J AustelEdited by Lee Carl Finley, PhD

Introduction

This small work is the result of years of study of the Hebrew verbal system. These are the parsing notesdeveloped by Dr Hermann J. Austel, long-time Hebrew/Old Testament Professor at Corban University(formerly Northwest Baptist Seminary). Dr. Austel did his PhD work at UCLA, studying the Hebrew verbalsystem. What follows is, in part, a result of that work. The earliest work on these notes dates back to1968, with his latest updates being made in 1984. What follows are the bulk of those notes.

There are many facets to parsing: person, voice, singular/plural, verbal stem, etc. These notes concernthemselves with the most difficult aspect of parsing--identifying the verbal stem. The verbal stemenables the student to identify the root verbal stem and form. And knowing the verbal root and formform, the student can find not only meaning but the various uses of the verb as well.

Parsing Clues--General Rules

--The verbs are classified by the vowel appearing in the first syllable of the Hebrew verb. Pleasenote: This does not include the waw- conjunction that is commonly affixed to various Hebrewverbal forms. Note also, all radicals may or may not be shown in the examples that follow, inthat there are seemingly numerous of consonants and vowel point combinations in Hebrewverbal forms. What is key for parsing is: what vowel is under the first syllable of the verbal form.

--The form of the Hebrew word is further classified by whether the verbal stem has apreformative, regardless whether the verbal root is in a perfect or imperfect form. Thepreformative is not counted as part of the Hebrew root radicals of the word (ie--the bi-consonantal or tri-consonantal lexical form) but does count in counting the first syllable of theHebrew verbal form.

--Lastly, the student needs to note how many radicals of the Hebrew root are present in theform under question. Usually either two or three will be present. This is in addition to the above-mentioned preformative.

--After the Parsing form is given, one or more examples from the Hebrew text may be given.

--As to the form of the example, the letter s will be used to represent a generic Hebrew letter.

Thus, in representing a Hebrew triliteral root, the form sss shall be used, with the appropriatevowel pointing. Other letters, such as laryngeals, will be represented as noted.

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I. Qamets

A. with the preformative being the first syllable

1. when 3 root radicals present, and

a.) 1st radical--typical Hebrew consonant

i.) -s.h' Hophal Perfect

Dan. 9.1--%l;m.h' Lev. 5.23 (6.4 Eng)--dq;p.h'

ii.) -s.a' -s.T' -s.N '' etc1 Hophal Imperfect (rare)

b.) 1st radical--laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r) Hebrew consonant

i.) -x\h' Hophal Perfect

I Ki. 22.34--ytiylex\h'

ii.) -x\y '-x\T' -x\N '' etc2 Hophal Imperfect (rare)

2. when 2 root radicals present

a.) -sa' -sT' -sN '' etc Qal or Hiphal Imperfect of w''[ verb

Hab. 2.2--cWry ' / II Chr 35.13--Wcyriy '

b.) sWsN ''or sAsN ' Niphal Perfect or Niphal Participle of w''[ verb

Gen 41.33,39--!wObN '

Note: if the preformative is a n, and the second vowel is a W, or a A, thenthe form could be either a. or b. (above) For example, note:

sAsN ' is the Ni. Pf. 3ms of ~wq, and

sWsN ' is the Qal Impf/Cohort 1cp of ~wq

c.) -s;N '' Niphal Perfect of [''[ verb

II Ki. 3.18--lq;n' d.) -s;N '' Niphal Participle of [''[ verb3

Isa. 49.6--lqen' Pr. 14.6--lq'n'

1 Any preformative can be found here (hence the “etc”), either singular or plural, 1st, 2nd or 3rd person. And so throughout the work unless otherwise specified.

2 This can be any laryngeal, not just x. And so throughout the work unless otherwise specified. 3 Cf. also lexicon and/or commentaries regarding this form--lcf.

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e.) -s.h' Hophal Imperative

Jer 49.8--Wnp.h'

B. with the 1 st root radical being the first syllable


a.) sss' Qal Perfect--Reg Verb

I Ki. 16.29--%l;m'

b.) sWss' Qal Passive Participle

Exo. 29.40--lWlb' II Ki 6.40--lWav'

c.) sAss' Qal Infinitive Absolute

Gen 37.8--%lom'

d.) (sf)sss' Qal Infinitive Construct w Suffix

II Ki. 25.27--wOkl.m'

e.) sss' Piel Infinitive/Imperative (cf %rb4)

Num. 23.11--%rEb'


a.) ss' Qal Perfect of w''[ verb or a h''l verb (cf. ~wq, awb), or

Qal Participle of w''[ verb (cf. ~wq, awb), or

Qal Imper of [''[ verb (cf. !nr)

Est. 7.7--~q' / Deu. 28.7--~ymiQ'h; /Isa. 44.23--WNr'

4 See also lexicon/commentary

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II. Pathah



a.) 1st radical--typical Hebrew consonant

i.) -s.y: -s.T; -s.N: etc Hiphal Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb

I Ki. 1.11--Wklim.y:


i.) -x]y: -x]T; -x]N ;etc Hiphal Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb

I Ki. 1.50--qzEx]y:

Note: with a vocalic suffix, the Qal Imperfect for a verb with a laryngeal

as the first radical can look like this: (vsf)ss.h;a; (vsf)ss.h;T ;(vsf)ss.h;N; etc


a.) 1st radical--typical Hebrew consonant i.) sySiy : sySiT ; sySiN : etc, or Hiphal Imperfect of a n''p verb

sSey: sSeT ; sSeN : etc

II Ki--jyBia:

ii.) hn's.ySey: hn's.ySeT; hn's.ySeN: etc Hiphal Imperfect of a n''p verb

iii.) sS,y: sS,T; sS,N : etc, or Hiphal Imperfect of a n''p verb (cf. hkn) I Ki. 18.43, 19.6--jB,y:

iv.) sS,m; sySim; Hiphal Participle of a n''p verb (cf. hkn) I Ki. 18.43--dyGIm;


i.) -x;y : -x;T; -x;N ;etc Qal or Hiphal Jussive/Imperf Consec of a h''l verb

Ex. 3.12--!Wb.[;T;

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3. when 1 root radical is present (this is rare).

a.) from a doubly weak verb i.) %a; %T; %N: etc Hiphal Imperfect of a n''p and h''l verb (cf. hkn5)

II Ki. 13.18--%Y:



i.) -s.s; Pi'el Imperative or Pi'el Infinitive of a regular verb

Ex. 6.29--rBeD;


i.) (csf)s.s; Qal Perfect of a w''[ verb (note: only with a consonantalsufformative).

Jud. 9.18--~T,m.q;

ii.) s.s; or (sf)s.s Qal Perfect of an [''[ verb (with or without suffix)

Jos. 5.9--yTiwOLig:

5 Cf lexicon and/or commentary

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III. Hiriq



a.) -s.yI -s.Ti -s.NI etc Qal Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb

I Ki. 8.63--xB;z>yI Isa 4.1--vB'l.nI

b.) -s'yyI -s'yT i -s'yN I etc/ Qal Imperfect of a y''p verb (eg--ary) -s;yyI -s;yTi -s;yNI etc

I Sam 18.30--rq;yyI

c.) -s.hi Hiphal Perfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb

I Sam 28.9--tyrIk.hi Isa 45.21--[:ymiv..hi

d.) -s.nI Niphal Perfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb, orNiphal Participle6

Jer. 51.42--ht's'k.nI / Ezek. 33.30--~yrIB'D.nIh;

e.) -S'yI -S'Ti -S'Ni etc Niphal Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb

Est. 2.23--aceM'yI (cf also Est. 3.9)

f.) -S'hi Niphal Infinitive of a regular verb or a h''l verb

I Sam 15.29--~xeN'hil.

g.) -t.hi Hithpael Perfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb7

Jos 9.13--W[Q'B;t.hi

h.) -t.yI -t.Ti -t.nI Hithpael Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb

Job 41.9--WdK.l;t.yI

Note: with the Hithpael stem there is the possibility of metathesis andassimilation being seen with “f.” and “g.” above.

i.) -t.mi / -t.hi Hithpael Part. / Imper. of a regular verb or a h''l verb8,9

I Ki. 11.29--hS,K;t.mi / Nah. 3.15--dBeK;t.hi

6 The participle is ususlly identified by the article and/or the noun endings affixed to the verbal form. Participle may also

have a Qamets ( ') in place of the Pathah ( ;)in the Niphal Perf masc sing. See lexicons (eg--~xl)

7 Please note: the t may also assimilate. According to Gesenius: “When the stem begins with a d- or t- sound the

preformative is assimilated to it, e.g. rBeD;mi speaking, conversing; aK'D;hi to be crushed ;....The assimilation of the t also

occurs with n and k.” p. 149. 8 May also be found in metathesis, Hishtapael form. 9 See also footnote 7 (above)

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a.) -wOS.yI -wOS.Ti -wOS.NI etc Niphal Imperfect of a w''[ verb (this is rare).10

b.) -S;yI -S;Ti -S;NI etc11 Qal Imperfect of a n''p12 verb, or

Niphal Imperfect of a [''[ verb13

Job 41.8--WvG:yI / Ezek. 1.9--WBS;yI

c.) -S;NI Niphal Perfect of a n''p verb14 (Isa 53.7--fG:nI), or

Qal Imperfect 1st common plural of a n''p verb (this is rare)

Isa 53.7--fG:nI

Note: the Niphal Participle has a Qamets (S') instead of the Pathah (S;)under the doubled consonant (cf. !tn, hfn, etc)

d.) -OSyI -OST i -OSN I etc Qal Imperfect of a n''p verb, or

an alternate form for Qal Imperfect of a [''[ verb

Hos 12.15--fwOJnI, Pr 1.8--fJoTi / Amo 5.13--~DoyI

e.) -SeyI -SeTi -SeNI etc Qal Imperfect of a n''p verb15

Deu. 28.67--!TeyI

f.) -ss,yI -ss,Ti -ss,NI etc Qal Imperfect consec or Jussive of a n''p or h''l verb16

Gen. 30.4--!T,Tiw:

g.) -Shi Hiphal Perfect of a n''p verb, or

Niphal Infinitive of w''[ verb (eg--vwd)

II Ki. 22.9--WkyTihi / Isa. 25.10--vWDhi

h.) -syyI -syTi -syNI etc Qal Imperfect of a y''p / w''p verb

Nu. 21.30--~r'yNI

3. when 1 root radical is present (this is rare). a.) from a doubly weak verb

i.) jyI jTi jNI etc Qal Imperfect/Consec of a verb that is both n''p and h''lII Ki. 9.33--zYIw:

10 Holem may also be defective. 11 In pause, the Patah “ ; ” “can become a Qamats “ '” in a Qal Imperfect

12 May also include ['' [ verbs. Cf I Ki 1.1, ~~x13 Note also the vowel can be lengthened under a gutteral. Cf llx in the lexicons14 For certain n''p verbs, the Piel and Niphal can have same/similar forms. Cf qtn 15 If the form as a verbal suffix, the Sere may be pulled back a syllable and the second syllable replaced with a Sheva. Cf

Jer. 9.1.

16 In a n''p verb, the consonant may contain a dagesh.

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a.) -Ssi Piel Perfect of a regular verb17 or a h''l verb

Isa. 59.3--WrB.Di / Num. 4.9-- WSKi

b.) -ssi Qal Imperative of a regular verb (cf. [nm)

Jer 2.25--y[in>mi

c.) -ssi Qal Infinitive of a y''p verb (cf. Bvy, dry, acy)18

I Ki. 8.30--^T.b.vi Ezek. 31.15--wOT.d.ri

IV. Sere19


1. when 3 root radicals present, 1st radical--laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r) Hebrew consonant

a.) -h'ae -h'Te -h'NE etc Niphal Imperfect (cf. III.A.1.e.)

Jer. 30.16--Wlkea'y E


a.) 1st radical--typical Hebrew consonanti.) -she Hiphal Perfect of a w''[ or a [''[ verb

I Ki. 11.27--~yrihe Exo. 5.23-- [r;he

ii.) -sme Hiphal Participle of a w''[ or a [''[ verb

Pr. 3.35--~yrime Pr. 17.4--[r;me

iii.) -syE -sTe -sNE etc Qal Imperfect of a y''p verb, or some h''l verbs

consecutive (eg--hkb), or a [''[, (cf. ~mx ) or a w''[ (cf.

vwb) verb, or the verb %lh (%lh often functions as a y''pverb)

Ps. 104.23--aceyE / Gen. 27.38-- &.b.yEw: /

Deu 19.6--~xeyE / I Sam 9.7--%leNE

17 For certain n''p verbs, the Piel and Niphal can have same/similar forms. Cf qtn 18 Technically, the first radical of the lexical form ( y )is gone. The Hiriq is under the first radical of the contracted form. 19 Spoken additions that were given in class were incorporated to this section

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iv.) -syhe Hiphal Perfect of a true y''p verb20,21

Ps. 33.3--Wbyjiyhe

v.) -syyE -syTe -syNE etc Hiphal Imperfect of a true y''p verb

Gen. 32.13--byjiyae


i.) -wOha e -wOhTe -wOhNE etc Niphal Imperfect of a w''[ verb

Gen. 34.22--WtaoyE

ii.) -xae -xTe -xNE etc Niphal Imperfect of a [''[ verb

Lev. 21.9--lxete

3. when 1 root radical is present (this is rare):

a.) -syE -sTe -sNE etc Qal Imperf/Consec or Hiphal Imperf/Consec of a verb

that is both n''p and h''l

Gen 38.1--jyE / Jos 8.18--jYE

B. with the 1 st root radical being the first syllable1. when 3 root radicals present—laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r) in the second position

a.) sxse or srse Piel Perfect of a Hebrew verb w/ a laryngeal as the

second radical. Cf. rxb &rb etc

Gen 24.1--&r;be 2. when 2 root radicals present

a.) sse Qal Imperative of a y''p verb (cf dry, acy)Deu. 1.21--vrE

C. Special Cases1. tTe Qal Infinitive Construct of !tn

Jos. 10.12-- tTe

2. tace Qal Infinitive Construct of acy Gen 24.11--tace

3. ace Qal Imperative of acy Gen. 8.16--ace

20 For bjy see lexicon, the Perfect 3Sing and the Infinitive can have the same form. 21 Many y'' p verbs were originally w'' p verbs

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V. Seghol



a.) 1st radical--typical Hebrew consonanti.) sss.a, Qal Imperfect 1st common singular of a regular verb, or a

h''l verb.

Ps. 104.34--xm;f.a,


i.) ssx/h, Hiphal Perfect of a regular verb, or a h''l verb.

Num. 24.19--dybia/h,

ii.) ssx/n< Niphal Perfect of a regular verb, or a h''l verb.

Pr. 24.31--hs'r'_h/n<

iii.) ssh/a,22 Qal Imperfect 1st common singular of a regular verb.

II Ki. 8.9--hy,x.a, Amo. 2.3--gwOrh/a, 23

iv.) ssa/y< ssa/t, ssa/n< etc Qal Imperfect of a a''p verb.

Pr. 3.12--bh;a/y<

2. when 2 root radicals present a.) ssy< sst, ss,n< etc Hiphal Jussive or a Hiphal Imperfect Consecutive of a h''l

verb. II Ki. 17.6--lg<Y<w:

b.) sSa, Qal Imperfect 1st common singular of a n''p verb.24

Deu. 1.12--hF'a,

c.) (vsf)ssh, Hiphal Perfect of a h''l verb with a verbal suffix.

I Chr. 8.7--~l'g>h,

B. with the 1 st root radical being the first syllable1. ts,s, Qal Infinitive Construct of a !''p or a y''p verb.

Jud. 20.23--tv,G<l' Gen. 16.16--td,l,B

22 Shewa may be either full or half23 Holem may either be full or defective24 May also be a form of the word xql. Cf Gen. 14.23. Cf also lexicons and/or commentaries.

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.VI. Holem25


1. when 3 root radicals presenta. -swOh Hiphal Perfect26 of a y''p verb.

Jud. 1.27--vyrIwOh

b. -xwOh Hophal Perfect of a laryngeal verb.

Jud. 6.28--hl'[]ho

c. -swOy -swOt -swOn / -sOy -sOt -sOn Hiphal Imperfect of a y''p verb.

Gen. 47.11--bvewOYw:

d. ssaOy ssaOt ssaOn Qal Imperfect of a a''p verb.

Jud. 13.4--ylik.aTo

2. when 2 root radicals presenta.) -swOn / -sOn Niphal Perfect of a y''p verb.

Jer. 6.8--hb'v'_wOn

B. with the 1 st root radical being the first syllable1. when 3 root radicals present

a.) sswOs / ssso or ssewOs / sseso Qal Active Participle of the regular verb. Note: this does not

include hollow verbs (ie--y''[ or w''[) such as ~wq vwb etc.

Pr. 15.5--rmevo Isa. 14.31--ddEwOb

b.) ss;wOs / ss;so or ssewOs / sseso Polel/Polal Perfect of the w''[ verb (cf. bwv), or

Po'el/Po'al Perfect of the [''[ verb(cf. ~md)

Jer. 50.19--yTb.b;vo / Ps. 131.2--yTiom.m;wOd

c.) sx;so Pual Perfect of a Hebrew verb with a laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r)as the second radical.

Ezek. 21.18--!x;bo

2. when 2 root radicals presenta.) sso Qal Imperative of a [''[ verb (ie--same radical in the 2nd

and 3rd position). Isa. 8.9--WTxo Ps. 62.6--yMido

b.) sso Qal Infinitive of a [''[ verb (ie--same radical in the 2nd and3rd position).

Neh. 7.3--~xo

25 The Holem can be either full or defective. Please note examples26 Hiphal infin may have the same form as the Hiphal 3ms. Cf grammers/lexicons

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VII. Shurug


1. -sWh Hophal Perfect of a w''[, [''[ , or a y''p verb. Cf qcy dry Isa. 5.8--~T,b.v;Wh, Ezek. 21.14,16--hD'x;Wh

2. -sWm Hophal Participle of a w''[, [''[ , or a y''p verb. Cf acy Gen 38.25--taceWm

3. -sWy -sWt -sWn Hophal Imperfect of a w''[, [''[ , or a y''p verb.

Isa. 44.26--bv;WT

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VIII. Qibbuts



a.) -s.hu Hophal Perfect (Alternate Form) of a regular verb, or a h''lverb.

Jer. 22.28--Wkl.v..hu

b.) -s.yU -s.Tu -s.NU etc Hophal Imperfect (Alternate Form) of a regular verb, or a

h''l verb.

Isa. 34.3--Wkl'v..yU 2. when 2 root radicals present

a.) sS;hu / sS'hu Hophal Perfect of a n''p verb.

Jos. 9.24--dG:hu

b.) sS;yU sS;Tu sS;NU etc Hophal Imperfect of a n''p verb.

II Ki. 8.7--dG:YUw:

c.) sS'mu / sS,mu Hophal Participle of a n''p verb.

Mal. 1.11--vG'Mu

d.) sSehu / sySihu Hophal Infinative of a n''p verb.

Jos. 9.24--dGEhu

3. when 1 root radical is presenta.) WS;yU WS;Tu WS;NU etc Hophal Imperfect of a n''p verb. Rare. Cf. hkN

Isa. 1.5--WKTu


1. -Ssu or -S;su Pual Perfect of a regular verb27.

Isa. 52.5--xQ;lu Exo. 9.31--WKnU

2. -Ssu or -S;su Qal Infinative of a [''[ verb.

Job 6.17--wOMxuB.

27 Pual may have either two or three root radicals present.

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IX. Shewa28

A. with the preformative being the first syllable1. when 3 root radicals present

a.) -(S)s;y> -(S)s;T. -(S)s;N> etc, Piel Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb.

II Ki. 4.39--jQel;y>

b.) -xs'y> -xs'T. -xs'N> etc Piel Imperfect of a regular Hebrew verb or a h''l verb with

a laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r) as the second root radical.

I Ki. 14.10--r[eb;y>

c.) -(S)suy> -(S)suT. -(S)suN> etc Pual Imperfect of a regular verb or a h''l verb.

Exo. 34.34--hW<cuy>

d.) -xsoy> -xsoT. -xsoN> etc Pual Imperfect of a regular Hebrew verb or a h''l verb

with a laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r) as the second root radical.

II Sam. 7.29--%r;boy>

e.) ssewOsy> ssewOsT. ssewOsN> etc Polel Imperfect of the w''[ verb (cf. xyf), or

Po'el Imperfect of the [''[ verb (cf. bbs)

Isa. 53.8--x;xewOfy> / Jer. 31.22(21)--bbewOsT.

f.) ss;wOsy> ss;wOsT. ss;wOsN> etc Polal Imperfect of the w''[ verb, or

Po'al Imperfect of the [''[ verb29

Job 26.11--Wpp'=wOry>30

2. when 2 root radicals present a.) -sy> -sT. -sN> etc Qal or Hiphal Imperfect 2d/3d feminine plural of an

w''[ verb, or Qal or Hiphal Imperfect with a pronominal suffix of anw''[ verb

Isa. 54.10--hn'j,WmT. / Isa. 14.25-- Wns,Wba]

b.) -Ssy> -SsT. -SsN> etc Qal or Hiphal Imperfect 2d/3d feminine plural of an

[''[ verb, or Qal or Hiphal Imperfect with a pronominal suffix of an[''[ verb

Note: Qal --“U” class vowels Hiphal --“I” class vowels

Gen. 37.7--hn'yB,suT. / Jer. 52.21-- WnB,suy>

28 Shewa may be full or partial29 These forms are rare30 In pause, hence the Qamets and not Pathah

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c.) -sh] Hiphal Perfect Infinitive Construct w suffix of an w''[ verb, or

Hiphal Perfect with a pronominal suffix of an w''[ verb

Note: the Hiphal Perfect can also be pointed -sh/ Cf. twM.

Jer. 26.21--wOtymih] / Jer. 41.8--~t'ymih/

d.) -Ssih] Hiphal Perfect Infinitive Construct w suffix of an [''[ verb, or

Hiphal Perfect with a pronominal suffix of an [''[ verb31

e.) -xsy> -xsT. -xsN> etc Hiphal Perfect of a [''[ verb with a laryngeal (a,h,x,[,r)as the second root radical.

I Ki. 17.20--t'wO[rEh] Jer. 10.18--ytiroceh]

f.) swOsn> hswOsn> ~yswOsn> Niphal Participle in consecutive position with anothernoun/adjective, or in the Feminine Singular form, or in thePlural form. Cf. !wk, zwl, etc

Ps. 5.10--hn'wOkn> Prov. 2.15--~yzIwOln>


1. when three root radicals are present32 a.) -ss. Qal Infinitive Construct of a regular verb or a h''l verb, or

II Chr 36.20--&lom. Deu. 12.23--lkoa]

Qal Imperative of a regular verb or a h''l verb.

Gen. 24.14-- htev. II Ki. 4.36--ar'q.

b.) (vsf)sss. Qal Perfect of a regular verb w/ a verbal suffix (vsf).

I Sam 24.18--ynIT;l.m;G> II Ki. 8.9--ynIx;l'v. I Sam. 24.19--ynIT;g>r;h]

2. when two root radicals are present a.)1st radical--typical Hebrew consonant

i.) -ss. Qal Imperative of a n''p or a y''p verb.

II Ki. 4.36--yaiv.. II Ki. 9.10-- W[D>

31 These are rare32 Fisrt radical cn be either a hard consonant or a laryngal/gutteral (a,h,x,[,r). If first radical is a laryngal, then shewa can

be ], /, or \.

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X. Infinitives and Participles33

A brief note must be said regarding Infinitives and Participles. In certain instances, various infinitives andparticiples were included above, in that some forms can be identical or similar to other verbal forms.But in most cases, both infinitives and participles are readily identifiable.

The InfinitiveThe infinitive construct, in most forms, will be prefixed by a prepositional consonants l, b or k. Withmost of the prefixed verbal forms (ie--Hiphal, Hophal, Hithpael) , the infinitive will also have a prefixedh to the verbal form. The Niphal form may or may not have a h prefixed to the verbal form. In

addition, most infinitive constructs, when pointed with a Holem ( wO ), will often have a defective or

shortened form ( O ) of the Holem. Below are a few examples:

Nu. 8.19--tv,g<b. Qal Infin Construct Jer. 45.1--wObt.k'b. Qal Infin Construct w 3rd sing suffix

Est 6.14--aybih'l. Hiphal Infin Construct Isa. 14.25--rBov.lii Piel Infinitive Construct

I Sam. 2.28--rxob' Qal Infinitive Absolute Job 13.5--vrex]h; Hiphal Infinitive Absolute

Pr 18.2--twOLG:t.hiB. Hithpael Infin Construct Isa. 28.20--[;reT'f.hime Hithpael Infinitive w metathesis

and affixed !mi, contracted to me.

The Participle In most of the prefixed forms (ie--Hiphal, Hophal, Hithpael) as well as the Piel and Pual forms, participlesare easily identifiable by the prefix m, and, in the case of a plural form, the masculine ( ~y i-- )or

feminine ( twO-- ) noun endings. Please note the following examples:

Gen. 45.12--rBeD;m.h; Piel Participle w article m sg Gen. 12.3--^yk,r>b'm. Piel Participle, masc pl, w suff

Pr. 20.21--tl,x,bom. Pual Participle, fem sing Ezek. 38.8--tb,b,wOvm. Polal Participle, fem sing

Exo. 9.18--ryjim.m; Hiphal Participle, masc sing Jer. 32.30-- ~ysi[ik.m; Hiphal Participle, masc pl

Isa. 28.6--hm'x'l.mi ybeyvim. Hiphal Participle, construct form, masc pl

II Ki. 4.32--bK'v.mu Hophal Participle34, masc sing Isa. 53.4--hKemu Hophal Participle, masc sing

Most Qal and Niphal forms, although devoid of a participle prefix, are still identifiable in the plural, withthe masculine ( ~y i-- )or feminine ( twO-- ) noun endings; or, when used as a substantive, by the definitearticle. Please note:

Jud. 4.22--@dero Qal Participle, masc sing Gen. 16.13--rbeDoh; Qal Participle w article, masc sg

Hos. 2.7--ymix.l; ynEt.nO Qal Participle, construct form, masc

Gen. 37.17--~yrIm.ao Qal Participle, masc pl Isa. 1.7--twOpruf.. Qal Participle, passive, fem pl

Gen. 12.7--ha,r>NIh; Niphal Participle, w article, masc sing

Exo. 14.25--~x'l.nI Niphal Participle, masc sing (the Niphal Participle has a Qamets (x ') instead of the Pathah (x;))

33 This section was not original to the notes, but was added by the editor. 34 Although rare, Hophal participles can begin with mu, m', or in w''[ verbs, Wm.

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XI. Odd Verbal Forms35

The following verbs can have forms that are not readily discernible. These verbs are best learned bymemory and repeated visits to the lexicon.

hwh -- the common “to be” verb. Has many perfect and imperfect forms.

hwx -- the common verb for worship, bow down. It is commonly found in the Hishtapal stem.

qlh -- the verb often has the h eliding/missing in verbal forms.

hwc -- the common verb for “to command”. Has many perfect and imperfect Piel forms.

vyE -- technically, this is not a verb, but a noun, denoting existence. However, in practice, it is oftentranslated as a verb.

xql -- often acts as a y''p verb, with the l assimilating/vanishing.

~aun> -- again, technically, this is not a verb, but a noun, denoting verbal expression, used repeatedly inprophetic speech/formulae. However, in practice, it is often translated as a verb: “Thus saith...”.

hkn -- many of the forms of this verb may only have one root radical, in that the verb is both a n''pverb and a h'' l verb. Cf II Ki. 13.17--t'yKihi

!tn -- has many different contracted/elided forms

XII. The interrogative particle36

One must also be aware of the interrogative particle h], h;, or h,.37 This particle is often affixed tovarious verbal forms, but is not part of the verbal forms. Ultimately, the usage of the interrogative willneed to be learned by repeated study and memory. Note a few examples:

Gen. 4.9--yxia' rmevoh] Interrogative with a Qal masc sg participle.

Gen 37.8--%lom.Ti %lom'h] Interrogative with a Qal infinitive absolute.

I Ki. 21.20--ynIt;ac'm.h; Interrogative with a Qal Perfect 2nd sing w verbal suffix.

I Ki. 22.15--%lenEh] Interrogative with a Qal Imperfect 1st common pl.

35 This section was not original to the notes, but was added by the editor. 36 This section was not original to the notes, but was added by the editor. 37 Before most forms, the interrogative is h]. Before a simple shewa or a gutteral, it is h;. If the gutteral has a Qamets, it is

h, (Weingreen, p. 80). See also various lexicons and/or grammars.

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Organization of the Work

I. QametsA. with the preformative being the first syllable

1. when 3 root radicals present 2. when 2 root radicals present

B. with the 1st root radical being the first syllable1. when 3 root radicals present 2. when 2 root radicals present

II. PathahA. with the preformative being the first syllable



III. HiriqA. with the preformative being the first syllable


B. with the 1st root radical being the first syllable

IV. SereA. with the preformative being the first syllable

1. when 3 root radicals present 2. when 2 root radicals present 3. Special Cases


V. SegholA. with the preformative being the first syllable



VI. HolemA. with the preformative being the first syllableB. with the 1st root radical being the first syllable

VII. ShurugA. with the preformative being the first syllableB. with the 1st root radical being the first syllable

VIII. QibbutsA. with the preformative being the first syllableB. with the 1st root radical being the first syllable

IX. ShewaA. with the preformative being the first syllable



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Changes/edits

Overall Edits--separated out each instance of laryngeal consonants used --normal Hebrew consonants/laryngeals: qamets, pathah, --any footnotes added to the text were added by the editor

Individual Edits--added word “rare” to I.A.1.a.iii--added word “rare” to I.A.1.b.ii--added I.A.2.e.--added I.B.1.e--added III.A.1.b and f. --added III.A.1.d.--”or, Niphal Participle”--added III.A.1.i.--added the phrase “this is rare” to III.A.2.a.--added note III.A.2.c.--added n''p to III.A.2.f--added III.A.2.g.--”or Niphal Infinitive” --added phrase “or a h''l verb” to III.B.a.--added III.B.b. and c. --added the phrase “or a [''[, (cf. ~mx ) or a w''[ (cf. vwb) verb, ” to IV.A.2.a.iii.--added IV.A.2.c (2nd half)--split IV.A.2.a.i. into i. And ii. --split IV.2.a.i. into i. and ii.--added IV.A.2.b.ii. --added IV.A.3.--under the Seghol (V), divided the laryngeals from the reg consonants --added V.A.1.b.iii.--added V.A.2.c.--split VI.A.1. in original notes--split Holem VI.A into 2 and 3 radical sections--split Holem VI.B into 2 and 3 radical sections--added VI.A.1.b. --added VI.B.2.b. --added VII.A.2 and 4--split Qibbuts VIII.A into 2 and 3 radical sections--added 2nd form (w/ Qamets) in VIII.A.2.a--added VIII.A.2.c.--added VIII.A.2.d.--added VIII.A.3.a.--added VIII.B.2--added IX.A.2.c. and d. infinitives. Added note on c.--added IX.A.2.e and f--split IX.B into two sections: “three toot raadicals/two root radicals”--added “Infinitives and Participles” --added “Odd Verbs”

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Acknowledgments/Special Thanks

Special thanks is expressed to Professor (Emeritus) Russell Glessner, a professor of Koine Greek and NewTestament at Corban University School of Minstry and a personal friend of Dr Hermann Austel, for hisencouragement of me in this work.

The font that was used was obtained from BibleWorks, LLC, and was used in accordance with thestipulations of BibleWorks38.

References/Works Consulted

Armstrong, Terry A., Douglas L. Busby and Cyril F. Carr. A Reader’s Hebrew-English Lexicon of the OldTestament, Vol. I-II. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House. 1982.

Armstrong, Terry A., Douglas L. Busby and Cyril F. Carr. A Reader’s Hebrew-English Lexicon of the OldTestament, Vol. IV. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House. 1988.

Bowman, Thomas. Irregular Verbs: A New Hebrew Course. Edinburgh: T & T Clark. 1882. As accessed onGoogle Books. Accessed on 26 June 2015. Web address: https://books.google.com/books?id=yoeWgDuSvXwC&printsec=frontcover&dq=thomas+bowman&hl=en&sa=X&ei=4JmNVZiJIceeNpXngLgK&ved=0CCMQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=thomas%20bowman&f=false.

Biblia Hebraica Stutgartensia. Stuttgart, Germany: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft. 1967/1977/1987.

Davidson, Benjamin. The Analytical Hebrew and Chaldee Lexicon. Peabody MA: Hendrickson Publishers. 1848, 1997.

Even-Shoshan, Abraham, editor. A New Concordance of the Old Testament Using the Hebrew andAramaic Text. Jerusalem. “Kiryat Sefer” Publishing House LTD. 1989.

Gesenius' Hebrew Grammar, E. Kautsch, editor (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1910, 1988)

Holladay, William L. A Concise Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI:Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co/Leiden: E J Brill. 1988. (This was the primary lexicon used in the compiliation of the verses for this work)

Weingreen, J. A Practical Grammar for Classical Hebrew. New York, NY: Oxford University Press. 1959,2nd ed.

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38 see http://www.bibleworks.com/fonts.html"BWHEBB, BWHEBL, BWTRANSH [Hebrew]; BWGRKL, BWGRKN, andBWGRKI [Greek] Postscript® Type 1 and TrueTypeT fonts Copyright © 1994-2009 BibleWorks, LLC. All rights reserved.These Biblical Greek and Hebrew fonts are used with permission and are from BibleWorks, software for Biblical exegesisand research."

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https://books.google.com/books?id=yoeWgDuSvXwC&printsec=frontcover&dq=thomas+bowman&hl=en&sa=X&ei=4JmNVZiJIceeNpXngLgK&ved=0CCMQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=thomas%20bowman&f=false



http://www.bibleworks.com/fonts.html

Post Script: Why Learn to Parse at All? by Lee Carl Finley

Many, upon examining this work and noting the virtual myriad of forms of the Hebrew verb may ask thequestion: “Why should I learn to parse Hebrew verbs at all? Isn't there software or other referencematerial that will do this work for me?”

This very well may be true. There are very good resources available to the student of the word of Godthat will parse individual forms of Hebrew verbs found in the Hebrew text. In fact, over the last fewyears, numerous digital programs have been introduced on the market that can do this work almostautomatically. In some cases, all one has to do is move his cursor over the verb in question and a hostof information concerning the verb will appear.

So again, “Why learn to parse at all?”

In the first place, one will never truly know Hebrew if he cannot parse Hebrew verbs himself. This maysound a bit harsh. But one who constantly relies on the works and/or the opinions of others cannot trulybe said to be a student of the language itself. No Hebrew scholar of any weight is constantlydependent upon the opinions of others. Historically speaking, the serious student of the word of God(such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, Theodore Beza, etc) did not learn Hebrew in this manner.

Second, these reference works are not infallible. These aids can be wrong. Thus, knowing how to parseHebrew verbs can be a safeguard against error in one's study.

Third, as seen in the body of this work, some forms can belong to more than one Hebrew verbal stem.Not all reference works will tell the student this. In many cases, the stem mentioned by the referencework may be an editor's opinion of what the form is. Knowing how to parse will give the student of theword of God the ability to discern this.

Fourth, the aid can only go so far. Similarly, not all aids are alike. Thus, to move from one resource toanother, the student has to be competent with several differing aids.

Lastly, the aids can never take the place of one's intellect in the study of the word of God. Just as apair of crutches can only help the individual with a broken leg so far, so also the parsing aid. No onewith a broken leg would expect to use those same crutches for the rest of his life. No, it is fully expectedthat, at some point in the near future, the patient will set the crutches aside and walk for themselves.And the same ought to be true of biblical parsing aids39. At some point, the student no longer oughtneed to turn to parsing aids for every verbal form in a passage under study. Yes, such an aid may beneeded for some difficult form. But, as a rule, the student, at some point, is expected to walk (andrun!!) on his own, without the crutches.

And this, by the grace of God, may you do.

Please note: It is not easy work. Things of great consequence and weight seldom are. But being able toread and understand God's word in the original is a rare blessing indeed. If I were forced to give upeither my Hebrew Bible or my English translation40, I would give up the English. Undoubtedly, it would bedifficult at first. But over time, the richness of the study would surpass what could be done in English.And by His grace, if He wills, may you come to know the blessing of reading the word of God in fullnessof the original. And parsing is part of this blessing.

39 The same could be said for any biblical aid. 40 I prefer either the NASB or NKJV in my English reading

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Characteristics of Hebrew PoetryDr Hermann J AustelEdited by Lee Carl Finley, PhD

Introduction

What follows are the introductory notes regarding Hebrew poetry, developed by Dr Hermann J. Austel,long-time Hebrew/Old Testament Professor at Corban University School of Ministry (formerly NorthwestBaptist Seminary). These notes were utilized in various Hebrew and Old Testament classes taught by DrAustel.

Although not the most common genre found in the Old Testament, poetry forms a large section ofmany of the books of the Old Testament. Some books, such as Psalms and Proverbs are almostexclusively poetry, while others, such as Job, have the vast majority of their contents being poetry. Inaddition, much of the prophetic material that is found both the major and minor prophets is written inpoetry. Thus, a good understanding of the genre of poetry is critical for the serious student of the wordof God, whether he is able to read Hebrew or not. The text has only been altered slightly, to betterclarify or to explain the point under consideration, or to more precisely explain the interpretation.

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I. Characteristics of Hebrew Poetry

A. No Deliberate Rhyme

This characteristic is self-descriptive. Unlike most historic English poetry, Hebrew poetry does not makean attempt to rhyme sounds. Psalm 23, a classic piece of Hebrew poetry, is an excellent example:

1: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2: He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3: He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5: Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

`rs'x.a, aOl y[iro hwhy:1`ynIleh]n:y> twOxnum. Yme-l[; ynIce_yBir>y: av,D, twOan>Bi:2

`wOmv ![;m;l. qd,c,-yleG.[.m;b. ynIxen>y: bbe_wOvy> yvip.n:: 3 ydI_M'[i hT'a;-yKi [r' ar'yai-aOl tw<m'l.c; aygeB. %leae-yKi ~G::4

`ynImux]n:y> hM'he ^T,n>[;v.miW ^j.b.vi `hy'w'r. YsiwOK yviaOr !m,v,b; T'n.V;Di yr'_r>co Dg<n< !x'l.vu yn:p'l. %ro[]T;:5

`~ymiy' %r<aol. Hwhy-tybeB. Ytib.v;w> yY'x; ymey>-lK' ynIWpD>r>yI ds,x,w' bwOj %a;:6

B. No Deliberate Meter

Again, this characteristic, like that which precedes it, is self-descriptive. Again, using Psalm 23 as ourexample, there is no attempt by David to follow a uniform meter, either within each verse, or fromverse to verse. This can be especially seen in the Hebrew of the Psalm. Each verse is varied in length.There is no discernible meter in the verses. This Psalm is typical of Hebrew poetry in general.

C. Thought Parallelism

Parallelism refers to the practice of balancing a word or phrase with a corresponding thought. Thisparallel thought may be an exact or similar synonym, or it may express an antithetic thought. Inaddition, to synonymous and antithetic parallelism, there is a type referred to as synthetic parallelism,in which the second line completes the first, usually with some correspondence of ideas between theparts of each line.

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D. The Regular Use of Word Pairs

The regular use of word pairs may not always be discernible in translation, but is easily seen in theHebrew.

Examples of common word pairs:

--tents (Heb. mylih'ao) / tabernacles (twOnK'v.mi)

--earth/land (#r<[,) / dust (rp,ae / rp'[')

--know ([d;y') / perceive (!yBi)

--answer (hn'[') / reply (bWv)

--eternity (~l'wO[) / eternity to eternity (rwOdw> rwOD)

E. Exalted and Unique Style

In addition to the above-mentioned characteristics, Hebrew poetry has an exalted and unique styleinvolving certain distinctive syntactic and lexical features.

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Note: Understanding the principles of Hebrew parallelism is not merely a matter of appreciating theartistic form. It can be an extremely important tool for proper interpretation of a given passage.41

-----

41 Emphasis in the original

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II. Biblical Examples and Explanations

A. Synonymous Parallelism

Synonymous parallelism is basically a restatement of the thought of line 1 in line 2. Sometimes, thisrestatement can be epexigetical or explanatory in nature.

1.) Psalm 2.4

a bHe who sits in the heavens laughs

a' b' c' The LORD scoffs at them.

Interpretation: The letters a and a' correspond, as do b and b'. The letter a emphasizes the fact that the LORDis enthroned in the heaven as King. He cannot be victimized by the plotting of human rebels. Itpoints to His sovereignty. (It is very common in poetry to have an epithet for God, paralleling Hisname). The letter b' shows that the laughter of b is not amusement as much as an expression ofGod's scorn at the futile raging of men at God's right to rule the universe. The letter c' bothbalances the lines (three words per line in the Hebrew) and shows the direction of God'sscoffing/laughter. (c' is frequently called a ballast variant).

2.) Psalm 49.1

a bHear this, all peoples;

a' b' give ear, all inhabitants of the world:

3.) Psalm 81.13

a b cOh that My people would listen to Me,

a' b' That Israel would walk in My ways.

Note that b, listening, is clarified and amplified by b', walking in His ways.

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4.) Psalm 1.1

How blessed is the man

a b c who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,

a' b' c' nor stand in the path of sinners

a'' b'' c'' nor sit in the seat of scoffers

This is an example of similar rather than identical synonymous parallelism. Though each line saysroughly the same thing, each amplifies the other, the thought building with each new line.

5.) Psalm 1.2

(The word order of the English versions has been changed to reflect that of the Hebrew).

a b But in the law of the LORD is his delight

a' b' c' And in His law does he meditate day and night.

Note that v.2 is a complement to v.1. It gives the positive side of the blessed man. The object ofthis man's desire and aspiration is not the sinner and his ways (as seen in v. 1) but rather theword of God.

Letter b' clarifies b, showing that to delight in God's word means more than the expression of aslogan, or than an expression of an emotion. It has its outworking in daily life in the practicalrealm as the blessed man meditates continually and with delight on the word of God.

6.) Job 28.28

And to the man He said,

a b “Behold, the fear of the LORD, that is wisdom;

a' b' and to depart from evil is understanding.”

Note how a' helps to an understanding of what the fear of the LORD is. Cf also Ps. 111.10 for adescription from the positive perspective.

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7.) Psalm 51.1

a b Be gracious to me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness

b' a' According to the greatness of Thy compassion blot out my transgressions

This is an example of chiasm, an inversion of the order of the thought parallelism: a-b / b1-a1.

Note how a is defined more closely by a': grace is here experienced or seen in the blotting outof David's transgression.

B. Antithetic Parallelism

Antithetic parallelism is the opposite of synonymous parallelism, where the opposite of line 1 is found inthe line 2. Again, this antithetic restatement may be for epexigetical or clarifying purposes.

1.) Psalm 1.6

a b For the LORD knows the way of the righteous,

b' a' But the way of the wicked will perish.

Note the chiasm here in Ps. 1.6

Letters b and b' are obviously antithetic or contrastive.

Note also how a' clarifies a, as to the meaning of the expression “the LORD knows.” It clearlyhas the meaning here “the LORD cares about the righteous and will protect and care for him.”

2.) Proverbs 15.1

a b A gentle answer turns away wrath,

a' b' But a harsh word stirs up anger.

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3.) Proverbs 14.21

a1 a2 b He who despises his neighbor sins,

b' a1' a2'But happy is he who is gracious to the poor.

Note the chiasm here.

Note also how the second line clarifies the first:

(1) To despise one's neighbor means to be ungracious, unhelpful to the one in need.

(2) A neighbor is one with whom one comes in contact and who is in need (cf. Theparable of the Good Samaritan).

4.) Proverbs 15.29

a b The LORD is far from the wicked,

a b But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

C. Ladder Sequence

This is a special form of parallelism involving a number sequence. The usual pattern is 1/2, 3/4, 10/20,1000/10,000, etc.

1.) Indefinite Numbers

a.) Deuteronomy 32:30

a b c How could one chase a thousand,

a' b' c' And two put to flight ten thousand?

b.) Genesis 4.24

a b c If Cain is avenged sevenfold,

a' c' Then Lamech seventy-sevenfold.

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Note that b has no parallel. It is understood. This is common when other elements arecontrasted.

Note the difference in intent between examples a.) and b.) above: in a., lines one andtwo are conventionally equivalent. In b., there is a studied contrast between the twolines. Example a. is similar or synonymous parallelism. Example b. is contrastive orcomparative parallelism.

A similar example of ladder parallelism in the New Testament is found in Matthew 18.21-22.

c.) I Samuel 18.7

a b c Saul has slain his thousands,

a' c' And David his ten thousands

Again, this is contrastive. Saul certainly took umbrage at this song.

2. Definite Numbers

a.) Proverbs 30.18-19

There are three things which are too wonderful for me, Four which I do not understand:The way of an eagle in the sky, The way of the serpent on a rock, The way of a ship in the middle of the sea, And the way of a man with a maid.

b.) Proverbs 30.21-23

c.) Proverbs 30.29-31

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D. Emblematic Parallelism

Emblematic Parallelism involves the use of a simile, in which the statement of one line is rephrased inmetaphorical language in the other. This is a powerful and effective tool of communication.

Examples of emblematic parallelism can be found in the following verses:

--Psalm 103.11--Proverbs 11.22

See also Proverbs 25.11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 28; and Proverbs 26.1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 17,18, 21 and 23.

E. Synthetic Parallelism

In synthetic parallelism, the second line completes or explains the first.

1.) Completion

a.) Psalm 2.6

But as for Me, I have installed my KingUpon Zion, My holy mountain.

Line 2 completes the statement of line 1.

b.) Psalm 27.1

The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?

Lines 1 and 3 are in synonymous parallelism, as are lines 2 and 4 (Note how line 3 clarifiesand amplifies line 1).

Line 2 stands in synthetic correspondence to line 1, completing it and presenting itslogical and necessary conclusion. The same is true for lines 3 and 4.

c.) Psalm 7.1

O LORD my God, in Thee I have taken refuge; Save me from all those who pursue me, and deliver me.

Line 2 is the looked-for outcome of line 1.

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d.) Psalm 1.3

He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither;

and in whatever he does, he prospers.

Lines 2 and 3 are in similar synonymous parallelism with one another. Together, theydefine what is of particular interest about the tree of line 1.

Line 4 then points out in that respect the “blessed man” is like the tree of line 1.

2.) Comparison

In comparison, the thought expressed in one line is seen to be preferable to that expressed inthe other. Note the example of Proverbs 15.16:

Better is a little with the fear of the LORD, Than great treasure and turmoil with it.

Other examples can be found in the following passages:

--Proverbs 15.7--Proverbs 16.6 and 19--Proverbs 17.1--Proverbs 19.1--Proverbs 21.19

3.) Reason

Here the second line gives the reason for the statement of the first line. Note Proverbs 14.7:

Leave the presence of a fool, Or you will not discern words of knowledge.

F. Climactic

In climactic, the thought moves forth in waves, building to a climax. Note Psalm 29.1-2:

Ascribe to the LORD, O sons of the mighty, Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength, Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; Worship the LORD in holy array.

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Note also the following passages:

--Psalm 148.1--Psalm 150.1

G. Acrostic

Here successive verses (or groups of verses) begin with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet.

The best known example of this is Psalm 119, in which each of a group of 8 verses begins with the sameletter of the Hebrew alphabet until all 22 letters of the alphabet are completed. To be appreciated theoriginal Hebrew text is to be examined.

Another example is the book of Lamentations, in which chapters 1, 2 and 4 progress through theHebrew alphabet verse by verse. Chapter 3 progresses through the Hebrew alphabet in groups of 3verses for each Hebrew letter (thus, 66 verses).

Psalms 111 and 112 are also acrostic, changing letters at each line. In the text found in the BibliaHebraica Stuttgartencia (1977) the Hebrew letter has been edited/inserted at the head of each line,to illustrate the acrostic nature of the Psalm.

H. Additional Notes

Chiasm is frequently carried out over a large block of material. One example is found in Psalm 8 (seeAlden, Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society (JETS), Vol 17/1 [1974], pp. 11-28; Vol 19/3 [1976],pp. 191-200; Vol. 21/3 [1978]. pp. 199-210.):

v.1 a Benedictionv.2-3 b God's rulev.4 c Man's insignificance v.5 c' Man's greatnessv.6-8 b' Man's Rulev.9 a' Benediction

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Scripture Index

Genesis4.9 p. 214.24 p. 328.16 p. 1312.3 p. 2012.7 p. 2014.23 p. 14, n. 2416.13 p. 2016.16 p. 1424.1 p. 1324.11 p. 1324.14 p. 1927.38 p. 1230.4 p. 1132.13 p. 1334.22 p. 1337.7 p. 1837.8 p. 7, 2137.17 p. 2038.1 p. 1338.25 p. 1641.33,39 p. 645.12 p. 2047.11 p. 15

Exodus 3.12 p. 85.23 p. 126.29 p. 99.8 p. 209.18 p. 209.31 p. 1714.25 p. 2029.40 p. 734.34 p. 18

Leviticus5.23 (6.4 Eng) p. 621.9 p. 13

Numbers

4.9 p. 128.19 p. 2021.30 p. 1123.11 p. 724.31 p. 14

Deuteronomy1.12 p. 1412.23 p. 19

Deuteronomy (cont)19.6 p. 1221.1 p. 1328.7 p. 728.67 p. 1132.30 p. 32

Joshua5.9 p. 98.18 p. 139.13 p. 109.24 p. 17 (2x)10.12 p. 13

Judges1.27 p. 154.22 p. 206.28 p. 159.18 p. 913.4 p. 1520.23 p. 14

I Samuel2.28 p. 209.7 p. 1215.29 p. 1018.7 p. 3318.30 p. 1024.18 p. 1924.19 p. 1928.9 p. 10

II Samuel7.29 p. 18

I Kings1.11 p. 81.50 p. 88.30 p. 128.63 p. 1011.27 p. 1211.29 p. 1014.10 p. 1816.29 p. 717.20 p. 1918.43 p. 819.6 p. 821.20 p. 2122.9 p. 1122.15 p. 21

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II Kings3.18 p. 64.32 p. 204.36 p. 194.39 p. 186.40 p. 78.7 p. 178.9 p. 14, 199.10 p. 199.33 p. 1113.17 p. 2113.18 p. 917.6 p. 1422.34 p. 625.27 p. 7

I Chronicles8.7 p. 14

II Chronicles35.13 p. 636.20 p. 19

Nehemiah 7.3 p. 15

Esther2.23 p. 103.9 p. 106.14 p. 207.7 p. 7

Job6.17 p. 1713.5 p. 2026.11 p. 1828.8 p. 3041.8 p. 1141.9 p. 10

Psalms1.1 p. 301.2 p. 301.3 p. 351.6 p. 312.4 p. 292.6 p. 345.10 p. 197.1 p. 348 p. 3615.1 p. 3123.1-6 p. 27

Psalms (cont)27.1 p. 3429.1-2 p. 3533.3 p. 1349.1 p. 2951.1 p. 3162.6 p. 1581.13 p. 29103.11 p. 34104.23 p. 12104.34 p. 14111 p. 36111.10 p. 30119 p. 36131.2 p. 15148.1 p. 36150.1 p. 36

Proverbs1.18 p. 112.15 p. 193.12 p. 143.35 p. 1211.22 p. 3414.6 p. 614.7 p. 3514.21 p. 3215.5 p. 1515.6 p. 3515.7 p. 3515.29 p. 3216.6 p. 3516.19 p. 3517.1 p. 3517.4 p. 1218.2 p. 2019.1 p. 3521.19 p. 3524.31 p. 1425.11 p. 3425.12 p. 3425.13 p. 3425.14 p. 3425.18 p. 3425.19 p. 3425.20 p. 3425.25 p. 3425.26 p. 3425.28 p. 3426.1 p. 3426.2 p. 3426.7 p. 3426.8 p. 34

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Proverbs (cont)26.9 p. 3426.10 p. 3426.11 p. 3426.14 p. 3426.17 p. 3426.18 p. 3426.21 p. 3426.23 p. 3430.18-19 p. 3330.21-23 p. 3330.29-31 p. 33

Isaiah1.5 p. 171.7 p. 204.1 p. 105.8 p. 168.9 p. 1514.25 p. 18, 2014.31 p. 1525.10 p. 1128.6 p. 2028.20 p. 2034.3 p. 1744.23 p. 744.26 p. 1645.21 p. 1049.6 p. 652.5 p. 1753.4 p. 2053.7 p. 1153.8 p. 1854.10 p. 1859.3 p. 12

Jeremiah2.25 p. 126.8 p. 159.1 p. 11, n. 1510.18 p. 1922.28 p. 1726.21 p. 1930.16 p. 1231.22 (21 Eng) p. 1832.30 p. 2041.8 p. 1945.1 p. 2049.8 p. 750.19 p. 1551.42 p. 1052.21 p. 18

Lamentations1 p. 362 p. 363 p. 364 p. 36

Ezekiel1.9 p. 1121.14 p. 1621.16 p. 1621.18 p. 1531.15 p. 1233.30 p. 1038.8 p. 20

Daniel9.1 p. 6

Hosea2.7 p. 2012.15 p. 11

Amos 2.3 p. 145.13 p. 11

Nahum3.15 p. 10

Habakkuk2.2 p. 6

Malachi1.11 p. 17

Matthew 18.21-22 p. 33

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