Hebrew Poetry

                1. Parallelism: (the repetition, contrast, or continuance of a thought unit)

                                Synonymous: Simplest form. The second line repeats the first line

                                Synthetic: The second line expands or completes the first line

                                Emblematic: One line is literal, the other metaphoric

                                Antithetic: The second line stands in opposition to the first line

                                Climactic: The second line emphasizes or strengthens the first line

                2. Acrostic structure (Ps. 9-10; 34; 119)

                3. The main subject of Hebrew poetry is Yahweh, the creator of heaven and earth and his interactions with human beings.

 

Psalms

                Psalms are musical poems dedicated to God (or expressing truth about God) and they make use of figurative language—simile, metaphor, refrain, etc. They are not to be interpreted literally and it is dangerous to use them for making scientific or doctrinal points. 150 Psalms divided into 5 books (1-41; 42-72; 73-89; 90-106; 107-150). Israelites used the psalms normally as an aid to worship when they came to Jerusalem bringing sacrifices. Psalms attributed to David, Asaph, Solomon, Moses, Sons of Korah, Heman, Ethan. Headings are later additions. Phrase “Psalm of David” may mean by David or for David.

Types of Psalms:

1) Lament (both individual and communal, 6; 13; 31; 39; 44; 74; 79; 80; 83)

2) Thanksgiving (30; 66; 116; 138)

3) Praise (8; 29; 33; 104; 111; 113)

4) Royal (2; 5; 10; 18; 20; 24; 29; 35; 40; 44; 45; 47)

5) Wisdom (1; 37; 49; 119)

6) Imprecatory (cursing, 35; 58; 79; 109; 137; 139)

“Psalms of Ascent” 120-134. Possibly sung by pilgrims going “up” to Jerusalem for the annual feasts, or sung by Priest on the temple steps on behalf of those going into the temple to worship.

               

Song of Solomon/Song of Songs/Canticles

                Part of the Megilloth. Read at Passover. Traditionally understood as an allegory of God’s love toward Israel or toward the church. Actually a poem of love between a man and a woman. Describes God’s ideal physical relationship between a husband and wife. It demonstrates the God has a positive attitude toward sex and sexuality within the framework of marriage.