Proverbs

Example 1: Proverbs 1:8-19: Opening-middle-closing texture

Example of "logical argument," "thesis," "rationale," "argument from the contrary," "argument from example," and "analogy" in Proverbs 1:8-19.

Thesis: Hear, my child, your father's instruction,
and do not reject your mother's teaching;

Rationale: for they are a fair garland for your head,
and pendants for your neck.

Argument from the contrary:My child, if sinners entice you,
do not consent.

Argument from example (an expanded chreia): If they say, "Come with us, let us
lie in wait for blood;
let us wantonly ambush the innocent;
like Sheol let us swallow them alive
and whole, like those who go
down to the Pit;
we shall find all kinds of costly things;
we shall find our houses with booty;
throw in your lot among us,
we will all have one purse--

Restatement of thesis: my child, do not walk in their way,
keep your foot from their paths;

Analogy: For in vain is the net baited
while the bird is looking on;
yet they lie in wait-to kill themselves!
and set an ambush-for their own lives!

Conclusion: Such is the end of all who are greedy for gain;
it takes away the life of its possessors.


Original analysis by Chase Peeples, Emory Graduate Division of Religion

Revised by Vernon K. Robbins, Emory University

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