אבנימ

Biblical Hermeneutics Part Second Chapter 10

In this chapter Terry discusses broadly the nature and use of figurative language, and also gives some examples of specific kinds, e.g. metonomy synecdoche and hyperbole. Figures of speech, also known as tropes (Greek ?? “turn”) are words or phrases which are “turned” from their literal meaning connote something other. They arise in language in large measure due to the natural tendency of human thought to trace analogies and draw comparisons. Moreover we understand through faith and the testimony of Scripture that natural things and phenomena are formed by their Creator with the express purpose of typifying and testifying to spiritual verities. Hence the heavenly matters are the realities, and the earthly are the figures, e.g. Light and Darkness, Kings and vassals, birth, death, harvest, flowing water, etc. [Aside: In the same train of thought in which a recent discussion with Nathan Lewis was running, Terry cites R.C. Trench at length on this, a most profound quote!] In Scripture tropes are drawn mainly from the forms and features of the land, the life and customs of the people, and the patterns of ancient worship.

Specific rules for the interpretation of tropes are both unnecessary and impractical, though it is helpful to study the taxonomy of tropes. It is usually clear, again due to the natural tendencies of human thought, when a non-literal meaning is intended. To attempt to force a literal meaning upon a trope often involves a logical contradiction or an absurdity. Metonomy is the exchange of one name for another, and occurs in various kinds, e.g. subject for object, or cause for effect. Synecdoche is similar, and is specifically the exchange of the part for the whole, or vice versa. Other kinds of tropes discussed include Personification, Apostrophe, Interrogatory, Hyperbole and Irony.