I And 2 King Judah Literary Devices

The Holy Bible is seen as a whole book complete with great works of literature. Authors interconnected an array of literary devices within their writings and two of these are referred to as formulaic introductions and conclusions, which are frequent in the books of I and II Kings. These literary devices are able to frame accounts and narratives of the main subject, in this case, the kings. Throughout the historic and prophetic writings of I and II Kings, it is noteworthy to look further into the formulaic introductions and pay attention to how the rulers are introduced in the narratives. In these introductions, it is noticeable there are portions of the king’s genealogy. In nearly every account, both of Judah and Israel, the father is listed, with at times individuals farther up the blood
However, it is evident through the genealogy of the kings of Judah the mother is listed and at the times individuals farther up the bloodline. One simple reason for this is to keep track of the date of each king, from David all the way the last king of Judah, Zedekiah. To further detail the dates of each king, an age is given at the start of each period of service as well as how many months or years each king held the kingship. Analyzing further into the introductions, an assessment of each ruler is found within the introductory formula. These preparatory statements point back to the charge that David gave Solomon, declared at I Kings 2:1-4, near the conclusion of his tenure. David commanded Solomon, and the kings following, to pursue to path of righteousness that Yahweh has set established in the Law of Moses. Thus, it is key to note whether or not each ruler followed these instructions. Within each