Chiasm - Genesis 9 :10-18

 


I have recently become aware of a Hebrew writing technique, called a chiasm.


Here is an explanation from Google AI overview:

Chiasm is a Hebrew writing technique, from the Greek letter Chi (X), that structures text in a mirrored, inverted pattern (ABBA or ABXBA), where ideas or words in the first half are repeated in reverse order in the second half, creating emphasis, memorability, and deeper meaning, common in the Hebrew Bible for structuring verses, paragraphs, and even entire books, often highlighting a central point (the "X"). It uses parallelism and repetition to convey complex ideas in a way that aids teaching and oral tradition, making the core message clear through symmetry. 

How it works:

ABBA Structure: The simplest form, where idea A is followed by idea B, then B' (similar to B) and A' (similar to A).

Example: "When the going gets tough, the tough get going" (A=going, B=tough).

ABXBA Structure: Includes a central point (X) that carries the main emphasis or climax, with surrounding ideas mirroring each other.


I found this one in Genesis.  It follows the ABXBA structure, with God's revealing the bow in the clouds as His sign of the covenant between He and all life on earth, that He will never repeat the flood.


This is so interesting to me.  God's Word has layers upon layers of meaning and depths impossible to fully plumb.


I thank You God for Your Word. . .





Dave 

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