The characteristics of biblical poetry in David's speech: 1 Chronicles 29:1-20

 Here is a summary of the article (in Hebrew): The characteristics of biblical poetry in David's speech: 1 Chronicles 29:1-20 by Vered Orgil"

The article examines the characteristics of biblical poetry in the speech of King David in the Book of 1 Chronicles, chapter 29, verses 1-20. It argues, contrary to the opinion of other scholars, that the speech is not merely a prose passage, but deliberately incorporates numerous poetic elements. The article states that these characteristics, such as inclusio (a recurring frame at the beginning and end), chiasmus (a criss-cross structure), repetitions, and parallelisms, are intended to strengthen David's image as the founder of the institution of the Levitical singers.

The Persian words appearing in the speech were previously considered proof of a late redaction, but the article suggests that they are an integral part of the original text, as their content aligns with the general messages of the Book of Chronicles. The analysis of the poetic features shows how the author of the book used the speech to grant ancient legitimacy to the Levites, especially during the Return to Zion period when they were central to the Temple worship. The speech presents David not only as an exemplary figure who contributed to the building of the Temple but also as a linguistic artist who has a great command of poetry.

Tags: Biblical poetry, David's speech, 1 Chr 29, biblical criticism, Chronicler, David's character, parallelism, chiasmus, inclusio, hendiadys, merismus, typological numbers, Levites, the Temple, Return to Zion, theology.