When a book is translated into a new language, some of the nuances of the original are inevitably lost.
The Bible was not originally written in English. Most of the Old Testament was written in Hebrew. And just like a classic novel, the Bible was not written only as a divine work, but also as a work of literature.
Also just like any other work of literature, we gain a greater understanding when we know about literary devices and how the author is using them to emphasize or expand on an idea.
Large portions of the Old Testament are poetry. As such, they use poetic devices, just like poetry in our language. One of those devices is synthetic parallelism.
What Do the Literary Terms Mean?
To set the stage for this discussion, let’s make sure we define a few key terms.
A literary device is a structure that helps a writer convey his or her message in a simpler, more compelling way. Examples include metaphor, simile, alliteration, hyperbole, or allegory.
A poetic device is a literary device that is specific to poetry, used to create rhythm, enhance meaning, or intensify atmosphere/mood.
A couplet is two back-to-back lines that are joined via rhyme, meter, and/or idea to form a complete thought. This is important, as synthetic parallelism often occurs in couplets.
Parallelism means using elements in sentences or lines that are grammatically or conceptually similar, whether in structure, sound, meaning, or meter. Parallelism in English poetry is often achieved through the poetic device of rhyme.
What Does Synthetic Parallelism Mean?
To understand synthetic parallelism, it’s almost easier to define what it isn’t.
In antithetical parallelism, the idea on the second line is opposite the idea on the first line, to create a contrast or antithesis.
In emblematic parallelism, similes or metaphors are used to compare things to one another.
In synonymous parallelism, the second line is a restatement of the first line in a slightly different way — a synonym.
So, what is synthetic parallelism?
You might say synthetic parallelism is any parallelism that doesn’t fit into any of the above categories.
Basically, synthetic parallelism brings together ideas to show that they are related in some way, whether to compare, contrast, or correlate them.
In synthetic parallelism, the second line often repeats the sentiment of the first line, then adds something to it.
There are a few different kinds of synthetic parallelism, which we’ll look at below.
Understanding the Types of Synthetic Parallelism
The three types of synthetic parallelism in Hebrew poetry, as used in the Bible, are synonymous, antithetic, and synthetic. These types of parallelism are found in various books of the Bible, especially in Psalms, Proverbs, and other poetic sections. Here's a brief explanation of each type:
Synonymous Parallelism:
This occurs when the second line repeats the idea of the first line but uses different words or phrases. The second line essentially echoes the sentiment or concept presented in the first line, reinforcing or expanding upon the initial idea. An example of synonymous parallelism can be found in Psalms 24:1:
- "The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it."
- Here, the second part of the verse reiterates the idea that everything in the world belongs to the Lord, using different words.
Antithetic Parallelism
This type of parallelism presents a contrast or opposite idea between the first and the second lines. It is often used to highlight a strong contrast between two statements, making the moral or philosophical point more striking. Proverbs often use antithetic parallelism, such as in Proverbs 10:1:
- "A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother."
- The contrast between a wise son and a foolish son is used to convey moral teachings.
Synthetic Parallelism
Unlike synonymous and antithetic parallelism, synthetic parallelism does not repeat or contrast the idea of the first line but rather builds upon it, adding further information or completing the thought. The second line complements the first by expanding, explaining, or concretizing the initial statement. An example can be found in Psalms 1:3:
- "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers."
- The second part expands on the metaphor introduced in the first part, explaining the outcomes for the person described as a tree.
These types of parallelism are a fundamental aspect of Hebrew poetry's structure and aesthetic, enriching the text with layers of meaning and beauty through repetition, contrast, and progression of thought.
Examples of Synthetic Parallelism in the Bible
One kind of synthetic parallelism is an argument from lesser to greater. Examples are Proverbs 15:11 and Proverbs 21:27.
Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord — how much more do human hearts! (Proverbs 15:11).
The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable — how much more so when brought with evil intent! (Proverbs 21:27).
Another type of synthetic parallelism is an argument of better this than that:
It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:5).
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver! (Proverbs 16:16).
Other forms of synthetic parallelism simply classify, typically using “is” and “are”:
Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace (Proverbs 19:26).
Yet another form might be explained as statement and application.
Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out (Proverbs 17:14).
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much (Proverbs 20:19).
There are other types of synthetic parallelism, but these are some of the most commonly seen forms.
What Can We Learn from Synthetic Parallelism?
Synthetic parallelism can help us understand an idea more deeply. It expands on a subject to give it context and clarify meaning.
Parallelism can also give us a deeper appreciation for the Bible as a work of finely crafted literature.
The Lord not only gave us His Word to follow; He made it beautiful in a way that we could revisit the same passages time and again and continue to glean new things with each reading.
For further reading:
What Is Synonymous Parallelism in Hebrew Poetry?
What Is Antithetical Parallelism in Hebrew Poetry?
Does the Bible Contain Allegory?
What Is the Literary Device of Emblematic Parallelism Used in Hebrew Poetry?
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