Literary Forms in the Bible

Knowing the literary forms is important when we try to understand the passage in the Bible.

For example, if we recognize a passage as a myth, parable, prophecy, poetry, sermon or legend, we warn ourselves not to take the passage literally but to read it contextually. Thus we would look for a religious or symbolic truth rather than scientific or historical fact. If we recognize the passage to be a list, letter, law or history, we are inclined to take the passage literally and perhaps recognize some historical or scientific truth.

Myth:

A traditional story focusing on the deeds of gods or heroes, often in explanation of some natural phenomenon.

List:

An itemized series of names, words, etc., usually recorded in a set order.

Prophecy:

A prediction made under divine influence and direction.

Law: - a rule of conduct, moral principle, etc., derived from a generally recognize concept of universal justice.

Sermon: - a speech of a serious or solemn kind of pronouncement.

History:

A record or account usually written in chronological order of past events

Letter:

A written or printed message, usually of a personal nature or concerning a specific subject.

Proverbs

Prose or poetic statements or maxims for instructions.

Parables - short allegorical stories told to bring out a moral or religious truth.

Psalm: - a ‘sacred song’ or poem.

Legend - A story about people’s lives, including dialogue and interaction., legends tell the stories of important characters like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sampson, etc. while using dialogue

NOW YOU KNOW!

Now that you know more about HOW to read the Bible, we can better understand what this AMAZING collection of books is trying to teach us about GOD!