Source:Echoes:Ch7:5:Repeated alternate parallelism

Repeated Alternate Parallelism

Repeated Alternate Parallelism

In this form the parallel lines alternate, creating an AB, AB, AB pattern. The following verse, from 1 Nephi 19:10, features a number of prophecies concerning the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ. :A the God of Jacob, yieldeth himself, ::B according to the words of the angel, :A as a man, into the hands of wicked men, to be lifted up, ::B according to the words of Zenock, :A and to be crucified, ::B according to the words of Neum, :A and to be buried in a sepulchre, ::B according to the words of Zenos

Four messengers of the sufferings of Christ are mentioned: an unidentified angel, Zenock, Neum, and Zenos. Each prophetic message pertaining to the atoning sacrifice of the Lord alternates with the documentary citations of the prophet who delivered the message. In this manner the burden of the scriptures—the atonement of the Redeemer—is inseparably connected with those who carried the good tidings to humankind—the prophets.

The alternating AB, AB, AB pattern in Alma 30:10 sets forth violations of the law—murder, robbery, thievery, adultery (the lines marked with A)—followed by references to punishment (the lines marked with B). :A But if he murdered ::B he was punished unto death; :A and if he robbed ::B he was also punished; :A and if he stole ::B he was also punished; :A and if he committed adultery ::B he was also punished; :A yea, for all this wickedness

::B they were punished.[1]

Notes

  1. Donald W. Parry, "Hebraisms and Other Ancient Peculiarities in the Book of Mormon," in Echoes and Evidences of the Book of Mormon, edited by Donald W. Parry, Daniel C. Peterson, and John W. Welch (Provo, Utah: FARMS, 2002), Chapter 7, references silently removed—consult original for citations.