Figures of Speech This Is Appendix 6
From The Companion Bible.
It is most important to notice these. It
is absolutely necessary for true interpretation. God's Word is made up of
"words which the Holy Spirit teacheth" (1Corinthians
2:13. 1Thessalonians
2:13. 2Timothy
3:16. 2Peter
1:21, etc.).
A "Figure of speech" relates to
the form in which the words are used. It consists in the
fact that a word or words are used out of their ordinary sense, or place,
or manner, for the purpose of attracting our attention to what is thus
said. A Figure of speech is a designed and legitimate departure from the
laws of language, in order to emphasise what is said. Hence in such
Figures we have the Holy Spirit's own marking, so to speak, of His own
words.
This peculiar form or unusal manner may not be
true, or so true, to the literal meaning of the words; but
it is more true to their real sense, and truer to the truth.
Figures are never used but for the sake of
emphasis. They can never, therefore, be ignored. Ingnorance of Figures of
speech has led to the grossest errors, which have been caused either from
taking literally what is figurative, or from taking figuratively what is
literal.
The Greeks and Romans named some hundreds of
such figures. The only work on Biblical Figures of speech in
the English language is by Dr. Bullinger 1, from which we
have taken the whole of information given here as well as in the marginal
notes. He has classified some 217 seperate figures (some of them with many
varieties or subdivisions), and has given over 8,000 illustrations.
In Genesis 3: 14,15. we have some of
the earlist examples. By interpreting these figures literally as meaning
"belly", "dust", "heel",
"head", we lose the volumes of precious and mysterious truth
which they convay and intensify. It is the truth whish is
literal, while the words employed are figurative. (See under Appendix
19)
In the marginal notes will be found the names
of most of these figures; and we append a list with their pronunciation
and English definitions (giving one or more references as examples).
- Ac-cis'-mus ; or, Apparent Refusal
- (Matthew 15:
22-26). So named
because it is an apparent or assumed refusal.
Ac-ro'-stichion; or, Acrostic
(Psalm 119). Repetition of the same or successive letters at the
beginnings of words or clauses.
Æ-nig'-ma; or, Dark Saying
(Genesis 49:10. Judges
14:14). A truth
expressed in obscure language.
Æ'-ti-o-log'-ia; or Cause Shown
(Romans 1:16). Rendering a
reason for what is said or done.
Affirmatio; or, Affirmation
(Philppians 1:18). Emphasising
words to affirm what no one has disputed.
Ag'-an-ac-te'-sis; or Indignation
(Genesis 3:13. Acts
13:10). An expression
of feeling by way of indignation.
Al'-le-go-ry; or, Continued Comparison by
Reprensentation (Metaphor)
(Genesis 49:9. Galatians
4:22,24),
and Implication (Hypocatastasis) (Matthew
7:3-5). Teaching a
truth about one thing by substituting another for it which is unlike it.
Am-oe-bae'-on; or, Refrain
(Psalm 136). The repetition of the same phrase at the end successive
paragraphs.
Am'-phi-di-or-tho'-sis; or, Double Correction
(1Corinthians
11:22). A correction
setting right both hearer and speaker.
Am'-pli-a'-tio; or, Adjournment
(Genesis 2:23. 1Samuel
30:5). A retaining of
an old name after the reason for it has passed away.
An-ab'-a-sis; or, Gradual Ascent
(Psalm 18:37,38). An increase of
emphasis or sense in successive sentences.
An-acho'-re-sis; or, Regression
(Ephesians 3:14). A return to
the original subject after a digression.
An'-a-coe-no-sis; or, Common Cause
(1Corithians
4:21). An appeal to
others as having interests in common.
An'-a-co-lu'-thon; or, Non-Sequence
(Genesis 35:3. Mark
11:32). A breaking off
the sequence of thought.
An'-a-di-plo'-sis; or, Like Sentence Endings and
Beginnings
(Genesis 1:1,2. Psalm
121:1,2). The word or
words concluding one sentence are repeated at the beginning of another.
An'-a-mne'-sis; or, Recalling
(Romans 9:3). An expression
of feeling by way of recalling to mind.
An-a'-pho-ra; or, Like Sentence Beginnings
(Deuteronomy 28:3-6). The repetition
of the same word at the beginning of successive sentences.
An-a'-stro-phe; or, Arraignment
(Acts 7:48). The position
of one word changed, so as to be out of its proper or usaul place in a
sentence.
An'-e-sis; or Abating
(2Kings
5:1). The addition
of a concluding sentence which diminishes the effect of what has been
said.
Ant-eis'-a-go-ge; or, Counter Question
(Matthew 21:23-25). The answering
of one quetion by asking another.
An-throp'-o-path-ei'-a; or, Condescension
(Genesis 1:2; 8:21. Psalm
74:11. Jeremiah
2:13. Hosea
11:10). Ascribing to
God what belongs to human and rational beings, irrational creatures, or
inanimate things.
Ant-i-cat'-e-gor'-ia; or, Tu Quoque
(Ezekiel 18:25). Retorting upon
another the very insinuation or accusation he has made against us.
Ant'-i-me'-rei-a; or, Exchange of Parts of Speech.
- Of the Verb. The Verb used istead of some other part of speech
(Genesis 32:
24. Luke
7:21).
Of the Adverb. The Adverb used instead of some other part of
speech (Genesis 30:33. Luke
10:29).
Of the Adjective. The Adjective used instead of some other part of
speech (Genesis 1:9. Hebrews
6:17).
Of the Noun. The Noun used instead of some other part of speech
(Genesis 23:6. James
1:25).
Ant-i-me-tab'-o-le; or, Counterchange
(Genesis 4:4,5. Isaiah
5:20). A word or
words repeated in a revers order, with the object of opposing them to
one another.
Ant-i-met-a-the'-sis; or, Dialogue
(1Corinthians
7:16). A transference
of speakers; as when the reader is addressed as if actually present.
Ant-i'-phras-is; or, Permutation
(Genesis 3:22). The use of a
word or phrase in a sense opposite to its original signification.
Ant'-i-pros-o'-po-poe-i-a; or Anti-Personification
(2Samuel
16:9). Persons
represented as inanimate things.
Ant'-i-ptos'-is; or, Exchange of Cases
(Exodus 19:6, compare to
1Peter
2:9). One Case is
put for another Case, the governing Noun being used as the Adjective
instead of the Noun in regimen.
Ant-i'-stro-phe; or, Retort
(Matthew 15:26,27). Turning the
words of a speaker against himself.
Ant-i'-thes-is; or, Contrast
(Proverbs 15:17). A setting of
one phrase in contrast with another.
Ant'-o-no-ma'-si-a or, Name Change
(Genesis 31:21). The putting of
a proper name for a Appellative or common Noun, or the reverse.
Aph-aer'-e-sis; or, Front Cut
(Jeremiah 22:24). The cutting
off of a letter or syllable from the beginning of a word.
Ap'-o-di-ox'-is; or, Detestation
(Matthew 16:23). An expression
of feeling by way of destestation.
Ap-o'-phas-is; or, Insinuation
(Philemon 19.). When,
professing to suppress certain matters, the writer adds the insinuation
negatively.
A-po'-ria; or, Doubt
(Luke 16:3). An expression
of feeling by way of doubt.
Ap-o-si-opes'-is; or, Sudden Silence
It may be associated with:-
- Some great promise (Exodus 32:
32).
Anger and threatening (Genesis 3:22).
Grief and complaint (Genesis 25:22. Psalm
6:3).
Inquiry and deprecation (John 6:62).
Ap-o'-stro-phe; or, Apostrophe
When the speaker turns away from the real auditory whom he is
addressing to speak to another, who may be-
- God (Nehemiah 6:
9).
Men (2Samuel
1:24,25).
Animals (Joel 2:22).
Inanimate things (Jeremiah 47:6).
Association; or, Inclusion
(Acts 17:27). When the
speaker associates himself with those whom he addresses, or of whom he
speaks.
As'-ter-is'-mos; or, Indicating
(Psalm 133:1). Employing some
word which directs special attention to some paticular point or subject.
A-syn'-de-ton; or, No-Ands
(Mark 7:21-23. Luke
14:13). The usual
conjunction is omitted, so that the point to be emphasised may be
quickly reached and ended with an emphatic climax (compare to
Polysyndeton, and Luke 14:21).
Bat-to-log'-i-a; or, Vain Repetition
(1Kings
18:26). Not used by
the Holy Spirit: only by man.
Ben'-e-dic'-ti-o; or, Blessing
(Genesis 1:22,28. Matthew
5:3-11). An expression
of feeling by way of benediction or blessing.
Bra-chy'-lo-gi-a; or, Brachyology
A special form of Ellipsis (Genesis 25:32). See Ellipsis
I.3.
Cat-a'-bas-is; or, Gradual Descent
(Philippians 2:6-8). The opposite
of Anabasis. Used to emphasise humiliation, sorrow, etc.
Cat'-a-chres-is; or, Incongruity
One word used for another, contrary to the ordinary usage and
meaning of it.
- Of two words, where the meanings are remotely akin (Leviticus
26:
30).
Of two words, where the meanings are different (Exodus
5:21).
Of one word, where the Greek receives its real meaning by
permutation from another language (Genesis 1:5. Matthew
8:6).
Cat'-a-ploc'-e; or, Sudden Exclamation
(Ezekiel 16:23). This name is
given to a parenthesis when it takes the form of a sudden exclamation.
Chleu-as'-mos; or, Mocking
(Psalm 2:4). An expression
of feeling by mocking and jeering.
Chron'-o-graph'-i-a; or, Description of Time
(John 10:22). The teaching
of something important by mentioning the time of an occurrence.
Climax; or, Gradation
(2Peter
1:5-7). Anadiplosis
repeated in successive sentences (see "Anadiplosis",
above).
Coe'-no-tes; or, Combined Repetition
(Psalm 118:8,9). The repetition
of two different phrases, one at the beginning, and the other at the end
of successive paragraphs.
Correspondence.
This term is applied to repetition of a subject or subjects, which
reappear in varying order, thus determing the "Structure"
of any portion of the Sacred Text. This Correspondence is found in the
folowing forms:-
- Alternate. Where the subjects of the alternate members correspond
with each other, either by way of similarity or contrast.
- Extended. Where there are two series, but each consisting of
several members (Psalm 72:
2-17. Psalm
132.).
Repeated. Where there are more than two series of subjects,
either consisting of two members each (Psalm 26. Psalm 145.), or
consisting of more than two members each (Psalm 24).
Introverted. Where the first subject of the one series of members
corresponds with the last subject of the second (Genesis
43:3-5. Leviticus
14:51,52).
Complex or Combined. Where both Alternation and Introversion are
combined together in various ways (Exodus 20:8-11. Psalm 105).
Cy-clo-id'-es; or, Circular Repetition
(Psalm 80:3,7,19). The repetition
of the same phrase at regular intervals.
De'-i-sis; or, Adjuration
(Deuteronomy 4:26). An expression
of feeling by oath or asseveration.
Dep-re-ca'-ti-o; or, Deprecation
(Exodus 32:32). An expression
of feeling by the way of deprecation.
Di'-a-log-is-mos; or, Dialogue
(Isaiah 63:1-6). When one or
more persons are represented as speaking about a thing, instead of
saying it oneself.
Di'-a-syrm-os; or, Raillery
(Matthew 26:50). Tearing away
disguise, and showing up a matter as it really is.
Di-ex'-od-os; or, Expansion
(Jude 12,13). A lengthening
out by copious exposition of facts.
Ec'-pho-ne'-sis; or, Exclamation
(Romans 7:24). An outburst of
words, prompted by emotion.
Ei'-ron-ei-a; or, Irony.
The expression of thought in a form that naturally conveys its
opposite.
- Divine Irony. Where the speaker is Divine (Genesis 3:
22. Judges
10:14).
Human Irony. Where the speaker is a human being ( Job
12:2).
Peirastic Irony. By way of trying or testing (Genesis
22:2).
Simulated Irony. Where the words are used by man in dissimulation
(Genesis 37:19. Matthew
27:40).
Deceptive Irony. Where words are clearly false as well as
hypocritical (Genesis 3:4,5. Matthew
2:8).
E-jac'-u-la'-ti-o; or, Ejaculation
(Hosea 9:14). A parenthesis
which consists of a short wish or prayer.
El-eu'-ther-i'-a; or, Candour
(Luke 13:32). The speaker,
without intending offence, speaks with perfect freedom and boldness.
El-lips'-is; or, Omission
When a gap is purposely left in a sentence through the omissiion of
some word or words.
- Absolute Ellipsis. Where the omitted word or words are to be
supplied from the nature of the subject.
- Noun and Pronouns (Genesis 14:
19,20. Psalm
21:12).
Verbs and participles (Genesis 26:7. Psalm
4:2).
Certain connected words in the same member of a passage (Genesis
25:32. Matthew
25:9). Called
Brachyology.
A whole clause in a connected passage (Genesis 30:27.
1Timothy
1:3,4).
Relative Ellipsis.
- Where the omitted word is to be supplied from a cognate word in
the context (Psalm 76:
11).
Where the omitted word is to be supplied from a related or
contrary word (Genesis 33:10. Psalm
7:11).
Where the omitted word is to be supplied from analogous or
related words (Genesis 50:23. Isaiah
38:12).
Where the omitted word is contained in another word, the one
word comprising the two significations (Genesis 43:33).
Ellipsis of Repitition.
- Simple; where the Ellipsis is to be supplied from a preceding or
a succeding clause (Genesis 1:
30.
2Corinthians
6:16).
Complex; where the two clauses are mutually involed, and the
Ellipsis in the former clause is to be supplied from the latter;
and, at the same time, an Ellipsis in the latter clause it be
supplied from the former (Hebrews 12:20).
E-nan-ti-o'-sis; or, Contraries
(Luke 7:44-46). Affirmatation
or negation by contraries.
En'-thy-me-ma; or, Omission of Premiss
(Matthew 27:19). Where the
conclusion is stated, and one or both of the premisses are omitted.
Ep-i-dip'-lo-sis; or, Double Encircling
(Psalm 47:6). Repeated
Epanadiplosis (see below).
Ep'-an-a-di-plo'-sis; or, Encircling
(Genesis 9:3. Psalm
27:14). The repetition
of the same word or words at the beginning and end of a sentence.
Ep'-an-a-leps'is; or, Resumption
(1Corinthians
10:29. Philippians
1:24). The repetition
of the same word after a break or parenthesis.
Ep-an'-od-os; or, Inversion
(Genesis 10:1-31. Isaiah
6:10). The repetition
of the same word or words in an inverse order, the sense being
unchanged.
Ep'-an-or-tho-sis; or, Correction
(John 16:32). A recalling of
what has been said in order to substitute something stronger in its
place.
Ep-i'-bo-le; or, Overlaid Repetition
(Psalm 29:3,4,5,7,8,9). The repetition
of the same phrase at irregular intervals.
Ep'-i-cri'-sis; or, Judgement
(John 12:33). A short
sentence added at the end by way of an additional conclusion.
Ep'-i-mo-ne; or, Lingering
(John 21:15-17). Repetition in
order to dwell upon, for the sake of impressing.
Ep'-i-pho-ne'-ma; or, Exclamation
(Psalm 135:21). An exclamation
at the conclusion of a sentence.
Ep-i'-pho-za; or, Epistrophe in Argument
(2Corinthians
11:22). The repetition
of the same word or words at the end of successive sentences used in
argument.
Ep-i-stro-phe; or, Like Sentence-Endings
(Genesis 13:6. Psalm
24:10). The repetition
of the same word or words at the end of successive sentences.
Ep-i'-ta-sis; or, Amplification
(Exodus 3:19). Where a
concluding sentence is added by way of increasing the emphasis.
Ep'-i-ther-a-pei'-a; or, Qualification
(Philippians 4:10). A sentence
added at the end to heal, soften, mitigate, or modify what has been
before said.
Ep-i'-the-ton; or, Epithet
(Genesis 21:16. Luke
22:41). The naming of
a thing by describing it.
Ep'-i-ti-me'-sis; or, Reprimand
(Luke 24:25). An expression
of feeling by way of censure, reproof, or reproach.
Ep'i-tre-chon; or, Running Along
(Genesis 15:13. John
2:9). A sentence,
not complete in itself, thrown in as an explanatory remark. A form of
Parenthesis (see below).
Ep'-i-troch-as'-mos; or Summarising
(Hebrews 11:32). A running
lightly over by way of summary.
Ep-i'-trop-e; or, Admission
(Ecclesiastes 11:9). Admission of
wrong, in order to gain what is right.
Ep'-i-zeux'-is; or, Duplication
(Genesis 22:11. Psalm
77:16). The repetition
of the same word in the same sense.
Er'-o-te-sis; or, Interrogating
(Genesis 13:9. Psalm
35:10). The asking of
questions, not for information, or for an answer. Such questions may be
asked (1) in positive affirmation, (2) in negative affirmation, (3) in
afffirmative negation, (4) in demonstration, (5) in wonder and
admiration, (6) in rapture, (7) in wishes, (8) in refusals and denials,
(9) in doubts, (10) in admonition, (11), in expostulation, (12) in
prohibition or dissuasion, (13) in pity and commiseration, (14) in
disparagement, (15) in reproaches, (16) in lamentation, (17) in
indignation, (18) in absurdities and impossibilities, (19) double
questions.
Eth'-o-poe'-i-a; or, Description of Manners
(Isaiah 3:16). A description
of a person's peculiarities as to manners, caprices, habits, etc..
Eu'-che; or, Prayer
(Isaih 64:1,2). An expression
of feeling by way of prayer,curse, or imprecation.
Eu'-phem-is'-mos; or, Euphemy
(Genesis 15:15). Where a
pleasing expression is used for one that is unpleasant.
Exemplum ; or, Example
(Luke 17:32). Concluding a
sentence by employing an example.
Ex-er-gas'-i-a; or Working Out
(Zechariah 6:12,13). A repetition
so as to work out or illustrate what has already been said.
Ex'-ou-then-is'-mos; or, Contempt
(2Samuel
6:20). An expression
of feeling by way of contempt.
Gno'-me; or, Quotation
The citation of a well-known saying without quoting the author's
name.
- Where the sense originally intended is preserved, though the words
may vary (Matthew 26:
31).
Where the original sense is modified in the quotation or reference
(Matthew 12:40).
Where the sense is quite different from that which was first
intended (Matthew 2:15).
Where the words are from the Hebrew or from the Septuagint (Luke
4:18).
Where the words are varied by omission, addition, or transposition
(1Corinthians
2:9).
Where the words are changed by a reading, or an inference, or in
number, person, mood, or tense. (Matthew 4:7).
Where two or more citations are amalgamated (Matthew
21:13).
Where Quotations are from books other than the Bible (Acts
17:28).
Hen-di'-a-dys; or, Two for One
(Genesis 2:9. Ephesians
6:18). Two words
used, but one thing meant.
Hen-di'-a-tris; or, Three for One
(Daniel 3:7). Three words
used, but one thing meant.
Her-men'-ei-a; or, Interpretation
(John 7:39). An explanation
immediately following a statement to make it more clear.
Het'-er-o'-sis; or, Exchange of Accidence.
Exchange of one voice, mood, tense, person, number, degree, or
gender for another.
- Of forms and voices (
1Peter
2:6).
Of moods (Genesis 20:7. Exodus
20:8).
Of tenses (Genesis 23:11. Matthew
3:18).
Of persons (Genesis 29:27. Daniel
2:36).
Of adjectives (degree) and adverbs (2Timothy
1:18).
Of nouns (number), adjectives, and pronouns (Genesis
3:8. Hebrews
7:7).
Ho-moe-o'-pto-ton; or, Like Inflections
(2Timothy
3:2,3). Similar
endings arising from the same inflection of verbs, nouns, etc. . This
figure belongs peculiarly to the original languages.
He-moe-o-pro'-pher-on; or, Alliteration
(Judges 5). The repetiton of the same letter or syllable at
commencement of successive words.
Heo'-moe-o-tel-eu'-ton; or, Like Endings
(Mark 12:30). The repetition
of the same letters or syllables at the end of successive words. Used
also of an omision in the text caused by such-like endings: the scribe's
eye going back to the latter of such similar words, instead of the
former. See Joshua 2:1.
Hyp-al'-la-ge; or, Interchange
(Genesis 10:9. 1Kings
17:4). A word
logically belonging to one connection is grammatically united with
another.
Hyp-er'bat-on; or, Transposition
(Romans 5:8). The placing of
a word out of its usual order in a sentence.
Hy-per'-bo-le; or Exaggeration
(Genesis 41:47. Deuteronomy
1:28). When more is
said than is literally meant.
Hy'-po-cat-as'-ta-sis; or, Implication
(Matthew 15:13; 16:6). An implied
resemblance or representation.
Hy-po-ti-me'-sis; or, Under Estimating
(Romans 3:5). Parenthetic
addition by way of apology or excuse.
Hy'-po-ty-po'-sis; or, Word Picture
(Isaiah 5:26-30). Representation
of objects or actions by words.
Hys'-ter-e-sis; or, Subsequent Narration
(Genesis 31:7, 8. Psalm
105:8). When later
record gives supplemental or new particulars, not inserted in the
historical record.
Hys'-ter-o-log'-ia; or, The First Last
(Genesis 10 and 11. 2Samuel 24). A
prior mention of a subsequent event.
Id-i-o'-ma; or, Idiom
The peculiar usage of words and phrases, as illustrated in the
language peculiar to one nation or tribe, as opposed to other languages
or dialects.
- Idiomatic usage of verbs (Genesis 42:
38. 1John
1:10).
Special idiomatic usages of nouns and verbs (Genesis
33:11. Jeremiah
15:16).
Idiomatic degrees of comparison (Luke 22:15).
Idiomatic use of prepositions (Luke 22:49).
Idiomatic use of numerals (Psalm 103:2).
Idsiomatic forms of quotations (Psalm 109:5).
Idiomatic forms of question (Luke 22:49).
Idiomatic phrases (Genesis 6:2, 4. Matthew
11:25).
Idioms arising from other figures of speech (see notes in margin).
Chages of usage of words in the Greek language (Genesis
43:18. Matthew
5:25).
Changes of usage of words in the English language (Genesis
24:21. 2Kings
3:9).
In'-ter-jec'-ti-o; or, Interjection
(Psalm 42:2). Parenthetic
addition by way of feeling.
Mal'-e-dic'-ti-o; or, Imprecation
(Isaiah 3:11). Expression of
feeling by way of malediction and execration.
Mei-o'-sis; or a Belittleing
(Genesis 18:27. Numbers
13:33). A belittleing
of one thing to magnify another.
Me-ris'-mos; or, Distribution
(Romans 2:6-8). An enumeration
of the parts of a whole which has been just previously mentioned.
Mes-ar-chi'-a; or, Beginning and Middle Repetition
(Ecclesiastes 1:2). The repetition
of the same word or words at the beginning and middle of successive
sentences.
Mes-o-di-plo'-sis; or, Middle Repetition
(2Corinthians
4:8,9). The repetition
of the same word or words in the middle of successive sentences.
Mes-o-tel-eu'-ton; or, Middle and End Repetition
(2Kings
19:7). The repetition
of the same word or words in the middle and at the end of successive
sentences.
Met-a'-bas-is-; or, Transition
(1Corinthians
12:31). A passing from
one subject to another.
Met'-a-lep'-sis; or, Double Metonymy
(Genesis 19:8. Ecclesiastes
12:6. Hosea
14:2). Two
metonymies, one contained in the other, but only one expressed.
Met-al'-la-ge; or, a Changing Over
(Hosea 4:18). A different
subject of thought substituted for the original subject.
Met'-a-phor' or, Representation
(Matthew 26:26). A declaration
that one thing is (or represents) another: while Simile
resembles it, and Hypocatastasis implies it.
Met-a-sta-sis; or, Counter-Blame
(1Kings
18:17,18). A transferring
of the blame from one's self to another.
Met-o'-ny-my; or, Change of Noun
When one name or noun is used instead of another, to which it stands
in a certain relation.
- Of the Cause. When the cause is put for the effect (Genesis
23:
8. Luke
16:29).
Of the Effect. When the effect is put for the cause producing it
(Genesis 25:23. Acts
1:18).
Of the Subject. When the subject is put for something pertaining
to it (Genesis 41:13. Deutronomy
28:5).
Of the Adjunct. When something pertaining to the subject is put
for the subject itself (Genesis 28:22. Job
32:7).
Mi-me-sis; or, Description of Sayings
(Exodus 15:9). Used when the
sayings and etc., of another are described or imitated by way of
emphasis.
Neg-a'-ti-o; or, Negattion
(Galatians 2:5). A denial of
that which has not been affirmed.
Oe'-on-is'-mos; or, Wishing
(Psalm 55:6). An expression
of feeling by way of wishing or hoping for a thing.
Ox'-y-mor-on; or Wise-Folly
(1Timothy
5:6). A wise saying
that seems foolish.
Pae-sn'-si'-mos; or, Exultation
(Zephaniah 3:14). Calling on
others to rejioce over something.
Pal'-in-od'-i-a; or, Retracting
(Revelation 2:6). Approval of
one thing after reproving for another thing.
Par-a-bol-a; or, Parable i.e., Continued Simile
(Luke 14:16-24). Comparison by
continued resemblance.
Par'-a-di-a'-stol-e; or, Neithers and Nors
(Exodus 20:10. Romans
8:35,38,39). The repetition
of the disjunctives niether and nor, or, either and or.
Par'-ae-net'-ic-on; or, Exhortation
(1Timothy 2). An
expression of feeling by way of exhortation.
Par-a-leips-is; or, a Passing By
(Hebrews 11:32). When a wish is
expressed to pass by a subject, which is, notwithstanding, briefly
alluded by subsequently.
Parallelism; or Parallel Lines
The repetition of similar, synonymous, or opposite thoughts or words
in parallel or successive lines. Compare to
"Correspondence".
- Simple synonymous, or gradational.
When the lines are parallel in thought, and in the use of synonymous
words (Genesis 4:
23,24. Psalm
1:1).
Simple antithetic, or opposite. When the words are
contrasted in the two or more lines, being opposed in sense the one to
the other (Proverbs 10:1).
Simple synthetic, or constructive. When the
parallelism consists only in the similar form of construction (Psalm
19:7-9).
Complex alternate. When the lines are placed
alternately (Genesis 19:25. Proverbs
24:19,20).
Complex repeated alternation. The repetition of two
parallel subjects in several lines (Isaiah 65:21,22).
Complex extended alternation. Alternation extended
so as to consist of three or more lines (Judges 10:17).
Complex introversion. When the parallel lines are so
placed that the first corresponds with the last, the second with the
last but one, etc. (Genesis 3:19. 2Chronicles
32:7,8).
Par-ec'-bas-is; or, Digression
(Genesis 2:8-15). A temporary
turning aside from one subject to another.
Par-e-che'-sis; or, Foreign Paronomasia
(Romans 15:4). The repetition
of words similar in sound, but different in language.
Par-eg'-men-on; or, Derivation
(Matthew 16:18). The repetition
of words derived from the same root.
Par-em'-bol'-e; or, Insertion
(Philippians 3:18,19). Inseration of
a sentence between others which is independent and complete in itself.
Par-en'-the-sis; or, Parenthesis
(2Peter
1:19). Insertion of a
word or sentence, parenthetically, which is necessary to explain the
context.
Par-oe'-mi-a; or Proverb
(Genesis 10:9. 1Samuel
10:12). A
wayside-saying in common use.
Par'-o-moe-o'-sis; or, Like-Sounding Inflections
(Matthew 11:17). The repetition
of inflections similar in sound.
Par-o-no-ma'-si-a: or, Rhyming Words
(Genesis 18:27). The repetition
of words similar in sound, but not necessarily in sense.
Path'-o-poe'-i-a; or, Pathos
(Luke 19:41,42). The expression
of feeling or emotion.
Per-i'-phras-is; or, Circumlocution
(Genesis 20:16. Judges
5:10). When a
description is used instead of the name.
Per-i'-stas-is;or, Description of Circumstances
(John 4:6).
Ple'-on-asm; or, Redundancy
Where what is said is, immediately after, put in another or opposite
way to make it impossible for the sense to be missed.
The Figure may affect (1) words (Genesis 16:8); or (2)
sentences (Genesis 1:20. Deuteronomy
32:6).
Plok'-e; or, Word-Folding
(Jeremiah 34:17). The repetition
of the same word in a different sense, implying more than the first use
of it.
Po-ly-o-ny'-mi-a; or, Many Names
(Genesis 26:34,35. 2Kings
23:13). Persons or
places mentioned under different names.
Po-ly-pto'-ton; or, Many Inflections
The repetition of the same part of speech in different inflections.
- Verbs (Genesis 50:
24. 2Kings
21:13).
Nouns and pronouns (Genesis 9:25. Romans
11:36).
Adjectives (2Corinthians
9:8).
Po'ly-syn'de-ton; or, Many Ands
(Genesis 22:9,11. Joshua
7:24. Luke
14:21). The repetition
of the word "and" at the beginning of successive clauses, each
independent, important, and emphatic, with no climax at the end (Compare
Aysndeton and Luke 14:13).
Prag'-mato-graph-i-a; or Description of Actions
(Joel 2:1-11).
Pro-ec'-the-sis; or Justification
(Matthew 12:12). A sentence
added at the end by way of justification.
Pro-lep's-is, (Ampliatio); or, Anticipation
(Hebrews 2:8). Anticipating
what is going to be, and speaking of future things as present.
Pro-lep's-is, (Occupatio); or, Anticipation.
Answering an argument by anticipating it before it is used.
- Open. When the anticipated objection is both answered and stated
(Matthew 3:
9).
Closed. When the anticipated objection is either not plainly
stated or not answered (Romans 10:18).
Pros-a-po'-do-sis; or, Detailing
(John 16:8-11). A return to
previous words or subjects for purposes of definition or explanation.
Pros'-o-po-graph'-i-a; or, Description of Persons
(Matthew 3:4). A vivid
description of a person by detailed delineation.
Pros'-o-po-poe'-i-a; or, Personification
Things represented as persons.
- The members of the human body (Genesis 48:
14. Psalm
35:10).
Animals (Genesis 9:5. Job
12:7).
The products of the earth (Nahum 1:4).
Inanimate things (Genesis 4:10).
Kingdoms, countries, and states (Psalm 45:12).
Human actions, etc., attributed to things, etc. (Genesis
18:20. Psalm
85:10).
Pro'-ther-a-pei'-a; or, Conciliation
(Matthew 19:16). Conciliating
others, by way of precaution, because of something we are about to say.
Pro'-ti-me-sis; or, Description of Order
(1Corinthians
15:5-8). The
enumeration of things according to their places of honour or importance.
Repeated Negation; or Many Noes
(John 10:28). The repetition
of divers negatives.
Repetitio; or, Repetition
(2Chronicles
20:35-37. John
14:1-4). Repetition of
the same word or words irregularly in the same passage.
Sim'-i-le; or, Resemblance
(Genesis 25:25. Matthew
7:24-27). A declaration
that one thing resembles another. (Compare Metaphor, above.)
Sim'-ul-ta'-ne-um; or Insertion
(Revelation 16:13-16). A kind of
historical parenthesis, an event being put out of its historical place
between two others which are simultaneous.
Syl-leps'-is; or, Combination
(2Chronicles
31:8). The repetition
of the sense without the repetition of the word.
Syl-leps'-is; or, Change in Concord
(John 21:12). A change in
the grammatical concord in favour of a logical concord.
Syl'-lo-gis'-mus; or, Omission of the Conclusion
(1Samuel
17:4-7). The
conclusion, though implied, is unexpressed, in order to add emphasis to
it.
Symbol
(Isaiah 22:22). A material
object substituted for a moral, or spiritual truth.
Sym'-per-as'-ma; or, Concluding Summary
(Matthew 1:17). When what has
been said is briefly summed up.
Sym'-plo-ke; or, Interwining
(1Corinthians
15:42-44). The repetition
of different words in successive sentences in the same order and the
same sense.
Syn'-ath-roes'-mos; or, Enumeration
(1Timothy
4:1-3). The
enumeration of the parts of a whole which has not been mentioned.
Syn'-cho-re'-sis; or, Concession
(Habakkuk 1:13). Making a
concession of one point in order to gain another.
Syn'-cri-sis; or, Repeated Simile
(Isaiah 32:2). Repetition of
a number of resemblances.
Syn-ec'-do-che; or, Transfer
The exchange of one idea for another associated idea.
- Of the Genus. When the genus is put for the species, or universals
for particulars (Genesis 6:
12. Matthew
3:5).
Of the Species. When the species is put for the genus, or
particulars for universals (Genesis 3:19. Matthew
6:11).
Of the Whole. When the whole is put for a part (Genesis
6:12).
Of the Part. When a part is put for the whole (Genesis
3:19. Matthew
27:4).
Syn'-oe-cei-o'-sis; or, Cohabitation
(Matthew 19:16,17). The repetition
of the same word in the same sentence with an extended meaning.
Syn-o-ny-mi-a; or, Synonymous Words
(Proverbs 4:14,15). The repetition
of words similar in sense, but different in sound and origin.
Syn'-the-ton; or, Combination
(Genesis 18:27). A placing
together of two words by usage.
Ta-pei-no'-sis; or, Demeaning
(Genesis 27:44. Romans
4:19). The lessoning
of a thing in order to increase and intensify that same thing. (Compare
Meiosis.)
Thau-mas'-mos; or, Wondering
(Romans 11:33). An expression
of feeling by way of wonder.
Tme'-sis; or, Mid-Cut
(Ephesians 6:8). A change by
which one word is cut in two, and another word put in between.
Top'-o-graph'-i-a; or, Description of Place
(Isaiah 10:28-32). Throwing light
on the subject dealt with by alluding to locality.
Type
(Romans 5:14). A figure or
ensample of something future, and more or less prophetic, called the
Anti-type.
Zeug'-ma; or, Unequal Yoke
When one verb is yoked on to two subjects, while grammatically a
second verb is required.
- Proto-zeugma, or, Ante-yoke or Fore-yoke (Genesis 4:
20. 1Timothy
4:3).
Meso-zeugma, or, Middle yoke (Luke 1:64).
Hypo-zeugma, or End yoke (Acts 4:27,28).
Syne-zeugmenon, or, Joint yoke (Exodus 20:18).
NOTE :
1
Figures of Speech Used in the Bible:
Baker Book House; Grand Rapids, Michigan.
ISBN:0-8010-0559-0
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