Reading Poetry in the Old Testament

First, it might help you to know that Hebrew poetry in the Old Testament isn’t based on rhyme, like some other kinds of poetry. And although rhythm, wordplay, and repetition of sounds are common features of ancient Hebrew poetry, these things are typically lost in translation. One feature you will notice, however, is the repetition of thoughts or ideas, sometimes called “parallelism.” Here’s a simple example from Isaiah:

Psalm 29 has many parallel lines—for example:

And here’s an instance where knowing that the second line is parallel to the first makes the passage easier to understand:

In these examples, the poet repeated an idea with slight differences. This technique can emphasize the repeated idea and use the differences to more fully describe or develop it.

In other cases, the two parallel sentences use similar language to convey contrasting ideas, as in this example:

This kind of parallelism didn’t happen by accident. The writers did it intentionally. It helped them express spiritual feelings or truths with both power and beauty. So when you notice parallelism in Old Testament writing, ask yourself how it helps you understand the writer’s message. For example, what might Isaiah have been trying to say by relating “strength” with “beautiful garments” and “Zion” with “Jerusalem”? (Isaiah 52:1). What can we infer about the phrase “a soft answer” if we know that “grievous words” is its opposite? (Proverbs 15:1).

Some people compare reading poetry to meeting a new person. Reading Old Testament poetry, then, might be like meeting someone from a distant country and foreign culture who speaks a different language from us—and who happens to be over two thousand years old. This person will probably say things we don’t understand at first, but that doesn’t mean they have nothing valuable to say. We just need to spend time with them, trying to see things from their point of view. We might find that in our hearts, we actually understand each other quite well. And if we show patience and compassion, our new acquaintance can eventually become a dear friend.

So when you read a passage from Isaiah, for example, consider it your first introduction to a new acquaintance. Ask yourself, “What’s my general impression?” How does the passage make you feel—even if you don’t understand every word? Then read it again, several times if possible. Consider reading it out loud; some people find added meaning that way. Notice specific words Isaiah chose, especially words that paint a picture in your mind. How do those pictures make you feel? What do they suggest about Isaiah’s feelings? The more you study the words of these Old Testament writers, the more you will find that they deliberately chose their words and techniques to express a deep spiritual message.

Poems can be wonderful friends because they help us understand our feelings and experiences. Old Testament poems are especially precious because they help us understand our most important feelings and experiences—the ones connected to our relationship with God.

As you study the poetry in the Old Testament, remember that scripture study is most valuable when it leads us to Jesus Christ. Look for symbols, imagery, and truths that build your faith in Him. Listen for inspiration from the Holy Ghost as you study.