In | Literary Structure

Like all literature, the Bible is much more than words. In narratives, for example, characters and settings are introduced in the process of a story’s plot. Individual stories build into larger stories, which are integrated into cycles of stories and the larger biblical metanarrative. 

Genesis, for example, is structured around the generations of key figures. Here are just a few examples: Adam (Gen 5:1), Noah (Gen 6:9), Jacob (Gen 37:2). Within those generational main plots come subplots, like that of Lot in the larger Abraham story. 

Similar kinds of structuring elements are evident also in law, poetry, parables and prophecy. Thus, as you read each kind of genre in the Bible, pay attention to the way a passage is organized. 

Does a proverb create a contrast between the two lines? (“Trust in the LORD with all your heart / and lean not on your own understanding,” Prov 3:5, NIV.) 

Or, does a proverb restate the first line with an elaboration? (“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it,” Prov 22:6, NIV.) 

Does a poem or story have an inclusio—that is, bookends that frame the beginning and end with a similar phrase? For example, the story of Jesus in His youth in Luke 2:40–52 is bookended by verse 40 (“And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom”) and 52 (“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man”). 

Also beware that some inclusios are part of a fuller chiasm—with inverse repetition of lines or thoughts throughout (diagrammed as A, B, C, D, C’, B’, A’). Let’s look at Joshua 1:5–9 (above) as an example.

You will become acquainted with these various terms for literary structuring throughout Bible Journey. The primary takeaway as you come to this step is to realize that a passage’s particular structure is designed to communicate meaning and reveal primary ideas.