List of list of over 200 rhetorical devices/figurers of speech found in the Bible, via perplexity.ai, by the grace of God

 

1. Simile – A direct comparison using "like" or "as."
   Example: He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water... (Psalm 1:3)
2. Metaphor – An implied comparison, saying something is something else.
   Example: I am the vine, you are the branches. (John 15:5)
3. Parable – A short story illustrating a moral or spiritual lesson.
   Example: The Parable of the Good Samaritan. (Luke 10:30–37)
4. Allegory – An extended metaphor where characters and events symbolize deeper meanings.
   Example: The allegory of the vine and branches. (John 15:1–8)
5. Personification – Attributing human qualities to non-human things.
   Example: Let the rivers clap their hands... (Psalm 98:8)
6. Anthropomorphism – Ascribing human form or attributes to God or gods.
   Example: The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous... (Psalm 34:15)
7. Hyperbole – Exaggeration for emphasis or effect.
   Example: If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out... (Matthew 5:29)
8. Irony – Saying the opposite of what is meant, often for humorous or emphatic effect.
   Example: Perhaps he is sleeping and must be awakened. (1 Kings 18:27)
9. Sarcasm – Mocking or satirical irony.
   Example: No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you! (Job 12:2)
10. Satire – Use of humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize.
    Example: You cows of Bashan... (Amos 4:1)
11. Antithesis – Juxtaposing contrasting ideas in balanced phrases.
    Example: A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish son is a grief to his mother. (Proverbs 10:1)
12. Oxymoron – Combining contradictory terms.
    Example: Present your bodies a living sacrifice... (Romans 12:1)
13. Paradox – A statement that seems self-contradictory but reveals a truth.
    Example: Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. (Matthew 10:39)
14. Riddle – A puzzling statement or question.
    Example: Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet. (Judges 14:14)
15. Idiom – A phrase with a meaning not deducible from its individual words.
    Example: A thorn in the flesh. (2 Corinthians 12:7)
16. Euphemism – A mild or indirect word substituted for one considered harsh.
    Example: He slept with his fathers. (1 Kings 2:10)
17. Metonymy – Substituting the name of one thing with something closely associated.
    Example: Moses is read (meaning the Law of Moses). (2 Corinthians 3:15)
18. Synecdoche – A part is used to represent the whole, or vice versa.
    Example: Give us this day our daily bread (bread = all food). (Matthew 6:11)
19. Apostrophe – Addressing an absent person or personified object.
    Example: O death, where is your sting? (1 Corinthians 15:55)
20. Allusion – An indirect reference to another text or event.
    Example: For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish... (Matthew 12:40)
21. Alliteration – Repetition of initial consonant sounds.
    Example: Hebrew poetry often uses alliteration (see Psalm 119).
22. Anaphora – Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses.
    Example: Blessed are the... (Matthew 5:3–11)
23. Epistrophe – Repetition at the end of successive clauses.
    Example: They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. (Luke 16:29)
24. Epizeuxis – Immediate repetition for emphasis.
    Example: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts... (Isaiah 6:3)
25. Polysyndeton – The use of many conjunctions.
    Example: And the fire...and the wood and the stones and the dust... (1 Kings 18:38)
26. Asyndeton – Omission of conjunctions.
    Example: The Lord curses the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the upright. (Proverbs 3:33)
27. Chiasmus – Inverted parallelism (A-B-B-A structure).
    Example: But many who are first will be last, and the last first. (Matthew 19:30)
28. Inclusio – Repetition of a phrase at the beginning and end of a section.
    Example: O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! (Psalm 8:1)
29. Ellipsis – Omission of words that are understood in context.
    Example: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. (Psalm 23:1)
30. Hendiadys – Expressing a single idea by two nouns joined by "and."
    Example: The sacrifice and service of your faith. (Philippians 2:17)
31. Merism – Referring to a whole by enumerating some of its parts.
    Example: Heaven and earth (meaning the universe). (Genesis 1:1)
32. Climax – Arrangement of words in order of increasing importance.
    Example: Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge... (2 Peter 1:5–7)
33. Anticlimax – Abrupt descent from the dignified or important to the trivial.
    Example: You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel. (Matthew 23:24)
34. Anacoluthon – A break in the grammatical sequence of a sentence.
    Example: If you, being a Jew, live like the Gentiles and not like the Jews, how is it then that you compel Gentiles to live as Jews? (Galatians 2:14)
35. Parenthesis – Insertion of a word or phrase that interrupts the flow.
    Example: (Let the reader understand) (Matthew 24:15)
36. Onomatopoeia – Words that imitate sounds.
    Example: The floods have lifted up their voice... (Psalm 93:3)
37. Assonance – Repetition of vowel sounds.
    Example: Used in Hebrew poetry, e.g., Psalm 27.
38. Consonance – Repetition of consonant sounds.
    Example: Common in Hebrew poetry, e.g., Psalm 119.
39. Acrostic – Each line or verse begins with successive letters of the alphabet.
    Example: Psalm 119 is an acrostic poem.
40. Rhetorical Question – Asking a question for effect, not expecting an answer.
    Example: If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)
41. Antanaclasis – Repetition of a word in two different senses.
    Example: Let the dead bury their own dead. (Matthew 8:22)
42. Antimetabole – Repetition of words in successive clauses, in reverse order.
    Example: Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12)
43. Antonomasia – Substitution of a title or epithet for a proper name.
    Example: The Nazarene (for Jesus). (Matthew 2:23)
44. Aposiopesis – A sudden breaking off in speech, leaving a thought incomplete.
    Example: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me—? (Matthew 27:46)
45. Apposition – Placing side by side two coordinate elements, the second of which serves as an explanation or modification of the first.
    Example: Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ... (Romans 1:1)
46. Auxesis – Arranging words or clauses in a sequence of increasing force.
    Example: For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle... (1 Corinthians 15:9)
47. Catachresis – An extravagant, implied metaphor using words in an unusual way.
    Example: The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. (James 3:6)
48. Cataphora – Use of a word or phrase that refers to a later word or phrase.
    Example: When he arrived, Peter went up to the room. (Acts 9:39)
49. Chleuasmos – Mocking or jeering speech.
    Example: He trusts in God; let God deliver him now if He desires him. (Matthew 27:43)
50. Conduplicatio – Repetition of a key word over successive phrases or clauses.
    Example: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)
51. Correctio – Amending a statement just made.
    Example: We are fools for Christ’s sake... we are weak, but you are strong. (1 Corinthians 4:10)
52. Diacope – Repetition of a word or phrase with one or two intervening words.
    Example: O Lord, my God, in you do I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers and deliver me. (Psalm 7:1)

53. Dialogismus – Speaking as another person or representing a conversation.
    Example: And they said to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” (Mark 16:3)
54. Enallage – Intentional misuse of grammar to characterize a speaker or a situation.
    Example: We was robbed! (colloquial, not a direct Bible example)
55. Enthymeme – An argument in which one premise is not explicitly stated.
    Example: For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:22)
56. Enumeratio – Listing details, or a process of mentioning words or phrases step by step.
    Example: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. (1 Corinthians 13:4)
57. Epanelepsis – Repetition of the initial word or words of a clause or sentence at the end.
    Example: Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. (Philippians 4:4)
58. Epimone – Dwelling on a point by frequent repetition of the same question or statement.
    Example: Simon, son of John, do you love me?... Do you love me?... Do you love me? (John 21:15–17)
59. Epiphora – Repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses.
    Example: For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22:14)
60. Erotema – Rhetorical question.
    Example: What is man that you are mindful of him? (Psalm 8:4)
61. Ethopoeia – Putting oneself in another's place and imitating their manner and feelings.
    Example: Paul pretends to be a fool to make a point. (2 Corinthians 11:21)
62. Exergasia – Repetition of the same idea, changing the wording.
    Example: Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)
63. Gradatio – Arranging words or clauses in a stepwise progression.
    Example: Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3–4)
64. Hypallage – Transferring an adjective from the noun it logically belongs to another noun in the sentence.
    Example: Blind mouths! (Milton, not a direct Bible example)
65. Hyperbaton – Altering the normal order of words for emphasis.
    Example: Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee. (Acts 3:6)
66. Hypocatastasis – An implied comparison (even more forceful than a metaphor).
    Example: You brood of vipers! (Matthew 3:7)
67. Hypophora – Asking a question and then immediately answering it.
    Example: What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! (Romans 7:7)
68. Hysteron Proteron – Reversal of the natural order of events.
    Example: They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. (Luke 16:29)
69. Isocolon – Parallelism with equal length clauses.
    Example: He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. (Luke 1:52)
70. Meiosis – Intentional understatement to belittle or dismiss something.
    Example: I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal. (John 1:27)
71. Metalepsis – Reference to something by means of another thing to which it is remotely related.
    Example: He has Abraham and the prophets; let them hear them. (Luke 16:29)
72. Metastasis – Passing over a matter quickly.
    Example: But let us not dwell on that now... (general rhetorical device)
73. Paralipsis – Pretending to omit something by drawing attention to it.
    Example: I could mention your generosity, but I won’t. (general rhetorical device)
74. Paranomasia – Pun or play on words.
    Example: You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18)
75. Paraprosdokian – Unexpected ending to a phrase or sentence.
    Example: They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. (Luke 16:29)
76. Parataxis – Placing clauses or phrases one after another, without words to indicate coordination or subordination.
    Example: He came, he saw, he conquered. (general rhetorical device)
77. Parenthesis – Insertion of a word or phrase that interrupts the flow.
    Example: (Let the reader understand) (Matthew 24:15)
78. Paronomasia – Play on words; pun.
    Example: You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18)
79. Periphrasis – Substitution of a descriptive word or phrase for a proper name.
    Example: The city of David (for Jerusalem). (Luke 2:4)
80. Pleonasm – Use of more words than necessary to convey meaning.
    Example: I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear. (Job 42:5)
81. Polyptoton – Repetition of words derived from the same root.
    Example: Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. (Hebrews 4:11)
82. Polysyndeton – Use of several conjunctions in close succession.
    Example: And the rain descended and the floods came and the winds blew and beat on that house... (Matthew 7:25)
83. Praeteritio – Pretending to omit something by drawing attention to it.
    Example: I will not mention... (general rhetorical device)
84. Procatalepsis – Anticipating an objection and answering it.
    Example: But some will ask, “How are the dead raised?” With what kind of body do they come? (1 Corinthians 15:35)
85. Prolepsis – Speaking of something future as though already done or existing.
    Example: I have given you Jericho into your hand... (Joshua 6:2)
86. Repetitio – Repetition for emphasis.
    Example: Truly, truly, I say to you... (John 3:3)
87. Syllepsis – A word applied to two others in different senses.
    Example: He lost his coat and his temper. (general rhetorical device)
88. Symploce – Combination of anaphora and epistrophe: repetition at both the beginning and end of successive clauses.
    Example: When there is talk of violence, let us stand up and talk against it. When there is talk of hatred, let us stand up and talk against it. (general rhetorical device)
89. Synathroesmus – Listing of adjectives, often in quick succession.
    Example: ...haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil... (Romans 1:30)
90. Synecdoche – A part is made to represent the whole or vice versa.
    Example: Give us this day our daily bread (bread = all food). (Matthew 6:11)
91. Synesthesia – Describing one sense in terms of another.
    Example: Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Psalm 34:8)
92. Tautology – Repetition of an idea in a different word, phrase, or sentence.
    Example: He will rise up, yes, he will rise up. (general rhetorical device)
93. Zeugma – A word applies to multiple parts of the sentence.
    Example: He took his hat and his leave. (general rhetorical device)
- https://www.perplexity.ai/search/i-contend-that-atheism-is-a-po-neQZZp0PQIGqXZIM6YBm8g#78
94. Adynaton – Extreme hyperbole to express impossibility.
    Example: It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. (Matthew 19:24)
95. Aetiology – An explanation of the origin of a custom, name, or phenomenon.
    Example: Therefore the place was called Beersheba, because there the two of them swore an oath. (Genesis 21:31)
96. Amphibology – Ambiguous grammar that allows multiple interpretations.
    Example: Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. (John 2:19)
97. Anadiplosis – Repetition of the last word of one clause at the beginning of the next.
    Example: For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance. (Matthew 25:29)
98. Analepsis – A flashback to an earlier event.
    Example: Stephen recounts Israel’s history before the Sanhedrin. (Acts 7)
99. Anapodoton – Deliberate omission of a clause, leaving it to the audience to complete.
    Example: If only you had listened... (general rhetorical device)
100. Anastrophe – Inversion of the usual order of words.
     Example: Silver and gold have I none. (Acts 3:6)
101. Antilogia – Contradiction in terms or ideas within a statement.
     Example: He who loves his life will lose it. (John 12:25)
102. Apodosis – The main clause in a conditional sentence (if...then construction).
     Example: If you love me, you will keep my commandments. (John 14:15)
103. Brachylogy – A concise or abbreviated expression.
     Example: Peace to you. (John 20:19)
104. Cacophony – Harsh, discordant sounds in writing or speech.
     Example: Gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 8:12)
105. Climax (Gradatio) – Words or phrases arranged in order of increasing importance.
     Example: Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge... (2 Peter 1:5–7)
106. Diaphora – Repetition of a name to emphasize its meaning.
     Example: Lord, Lord, open to us. (Matthew 25:11)
107. Dysphemism – Substitution of a more offensive or disparaging term for one considered less offensive.
     Example: Dogs have surrounded me. (Psalm 22:16)

103. Enallage – Intentional use of incorrect grammar to characterize a speaker or situation.
     Example: We was in bondage. (colloquial, not a direct Bible example)
104. Epimone – Persistent repetition of a phrase or question.
     Example: Simon, son of John, do you love me?... Do you love me?... Do you love me? (John 21:15–17)
105. Epistrophe – Repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses.
     Example: For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22:14)
106. Epizeuxis – Repetition of a word or phrase in immediate succession.
     Example: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty. (Isaiah 6:3)
107. Exclamation – An emphatic or emotional statement.
     Example: O Lord, how manifold are your works! (Psalm 104:24)
108. Homoioteleuton – Similarity of endings in adjacent or parallel words.
     Example: For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. (2 Timothy 4:3)
109. Homoioptoton – Similarity of case endings in adjacent words.
     Example: Common in Hebrew poetry. (Psalms)
110. Litotes – Understatement by using double negatives or a negative to affirm a positive.
     Example: He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, "I am not the Christ." (John 1:20)
111. Meiosis – Intentional understatement to belittle or dismiss something.
     Example: I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal. (John 1:27)
112. Metonymy – Substitution of the name of an attribute for that of the thing meant.
     Example: They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. (Moses = the Law) (Luke 16:29)
113. Onomatopoeia – Words that imitate natural sounds.
     Example: The floods have lifted up their voice... (Psalm 93:3)
114. Paradiastole – Distinguishing between two things by emphasizing their differences.
     Example: Not the letter but the spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:6)
115. Paraleipsis – Pretending to omit something by drawing attention to it.
     Example: I could mention your generosity, but I won’t. (general rhetorical device)
116. Paranomasia – Pun or play on words.
     Example: You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18)
117. Parataxis – Placing clauses or phrases one after another without words to indicate coordination or subordination.
     Example: He came, he saw, he conquered. (general rhetorical device)
118. Periphrasis – Substitution of a descriptive word or phrase for a proper name.
     Example: The city of David (for Jerusalem). (Luke 2:4)
119. Pleonasm – Use of more words than necessary to convey meaning.
     Example: I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear. (Job 42:5)
120. Polyptoton – Repetition of words derived from the same root.
     Example: Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. (Hebrews 4:11)
121. Prolepsis – Speaking of something future as though already done or existing.
     Example: I have given you Jericho into your hand... (Joshua 6:2)
122. Proverb – A short, common saying or phrase that expresses a truth based on common sense or experience.
     Example: Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)
123. Pun – A play on words, often for humorous or emphatic effect.
     Example: You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18)
124. Redundancy – Repetition or superfluity of information.
     Example: He answered and said... (Matthew 4:4)
125. Repetitio – Repetition for emphasis.
     Example: Truly, truly, I say to you... (John 3:3)
126. Sarcasm – Use of irony to mock or convey contempt.
     Example: No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you! (Job 12:2)
127. Syllepsis – A word applied to two others in different senses.
     Example: He lost his coat and his temper. (general rhetorical device)
128. Symploce – Combination of anaphora and epistrophe: repetition at both the beginning and end of successive clauses.
     Example: When there is talk of violence, let us stand up and talk against it. When there is talk of hatred, let us stand up and talk against it. (general rhetorical device)
129. Synathroesmus – Listing of adjectives, often in quick succession.
     Example: ...haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil... (Romans 1:30)
130. Syncrisis – Comparison and contrast of persons, events, or things.
     Example: For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:5)
131. Synecdoche – A part is made to represent the whole or vice versa.
     Example: Give us this day our daily bread (bread = all food). (Matthew 6:11)
132. Synesthesia – Describing one sense in terms of another.
     Example: Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Psalm 34:8)
133. Tautology – Repetition of an idea in a different word, phrase, or sentence.
     Example: He will rise up, yes, he will rise up. (general rhetorical device)
134. Zeugma – A word applies to multiple parts of the sentence.
     Example: He took his hat and his leave. (general rhetorical device)
135. Amplification – Repeating a word or expression while adding more detail to clarify, emphasize, or elaborate.
     Example: When your dread comes like a storm and your calamity comes like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. (Proverbs 1:27)
136. Anacoluthon – A break in the grammatical sequence of a sentence.
     Example: If you, being a Jew, live like the Gentiles and not like the Jews, how is it then that you compel Gentiles to live as Jews? (Galatians 2:14)
137. Anaphora – Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses.
     Example: Blessed are the poor in spirit... Blessed are those who mourn... Blessed are the meek... (Matthew 5:3–5)
138. Anastrophe – Inversion of the usual order of words or phrases.
     Example: Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee. (Acts 3:6)
139. Antanagoge – Placing a good point or benefit next to a fault, criticism, or problem to reduce the impact of the negative.
     Example: We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair. (2 Corinthians 4:8)
140. Antimetabole – Repetition of words in successive clauses, in reverse order.
     Example: But many who are first will be last, and the last first. (Matthew 19:30)
141. Antiphrasis – Use of a word in a sense opposite to its normal meaning for ironic or humorous effect.
     Example: “Friends,” said Jesus to Judas as he betrayed Him. (Matthew 26:50)
142. Antistrophe – Repetition of the same word or phrase at the end of successive clauses.
     Example: The time for healing, the time for building, the time for peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:3–8)
143. Antonomasia – Substitution of a title or epithet for a proper name.
     Example: The Nazarene (for Jesus). (Matthew 2:23)
144. Aposiopesis – A sudden breaking off in speech, leaving the statement unfinished.
     Example: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me—? (Matthew 27:46)
145. Appositive – A noun or noun phrase that renames another noun right beside it.
     Example: Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle... (Romans 1:1)
146. Asyndeton – Omission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.
     Example: He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. (Luke 1:51)
147. Auxesis – Arranging words or clauses in a sequence of increasing force.
     Example: For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle... (1 Corinthians 15:9)
148. Bathos – An abrupt transition from a lofty style or grand topic to a common or trivial one.
     Example: You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel. (Matthew 23:24)
149. Bomphiologia – Excessive bragging or boasting in speech.
     Example: Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built? (Daniel 4:30)

153. Chleuasmos – Mocking or jeering speech.
     Example: He trusts in God; let God deliver him now if He desires him. (Matthew 27:43)
154. Climax – Words or phrases arranged in order of increasing importance.
     Example: Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge... (2 Peter 1:5–7)
155. Conduplicatio – Repetition of a key word over successive phrases or clauses.
     Example: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)
156. Diazeugma – A single subject governs several verbs or verbal constructions.
     Example: Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching... preaching... and healing... (Matthew 4:23)
157. Dialogismus – Speaking as another person or representing a conversation.
     Example: And they said to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” (Mark 16:3)
158. Digression – A temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing.
     Example: Paul digresses about his sufferings in 2 Corinthians 11. (2 Corinthians 11)
159. Dirimens Copulatio – Balancing one statement with a contrary, qualifying statement.
     Example: Be angry, and do not sin. (Ephesians 4:26)
160. Ecphonesis – An emotional exclamation.
     Example: O wretched man that I am! (Romans 7:24)
161. Ellipsis – Omission of words that are understood in context.
     Example: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. (Psalm 23:1)
162. Enallage – Intentional misuse of grammar to characterize a speaker or situation.
     Example: We was in bondage. (colloquial, not direct Bible example)
163. Enthymeme – An argument in which one premise is not explicitly stated.
     Example: For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:22)
164. Enumeratio – Listing details, or a process of mentioning words or phrases step by step.
     Example: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. (1 Corinthians 13:4)
165. Epanelepsis – Repetition of the initial word or words of a clause or sentence at the end.
     Example: Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. (Philippians 4:4)
166. Epimone – Frequent repetition of the same question or statement.
     Example: Simon, son of John, do you love me?... Do you love me?... Do you love me? (John 21:15–17)
167. Epiphora – Repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses.
     Example: For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22:14)
168. Erotema – Rhetorical question.
     Example: What is man that you are mindful of him? (Psalm 8:4)
169. Ethopoeia – Putting oneself in another's place and imitating their manner and feelings.
     Example: Paul pretends to be a fool to make a point. (2 Corinthians 11:21)
170. Exergasia – Repetition of the same idea, changing the wording.
     Example: Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)
171. Gradatio – Arranging words or clauses in a stepwise progression.
     Example: Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3–4)
172. Hendiadys – Expressing a single idea by two nouns joined by "and."
     Example: The sacrifice and service of your faith. (Philippians 2:17)
173. Homoeoteleuton – Similarity of endings in adjacent or parallel words.
     Example: For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. (2 Timothy 4:3)
174. Homoioptoton – Similarity of case endings in adjacent words.
     Example: Common in Hebrew poetry. (Psalms)
175. Hypallage – Transferring an adjective from the noun it logically belongs to another noun in the sentence.
     Example: Blind mouths! (Milton, not a direct Bible example)
176. Hyperbaton – Altering the normal order of words for emphasis.
     Example: Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee. (Acts 3:6)
177. Hypocatastasis – An implied comparison (even more forceful than a metaphor).
     Example: You brood of vipers! (Matthew 3:7)
178. Hypophora – Asking a question and then immediately answering it.
     Example: What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! (Romans 7:7)
179. Hysteron Proteron – Reversal of the natural order of events.
     Example: They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. (Luke 16:29)
180. Hypotaxis – Using subordinate clauses to show the logical or temporal relationship between ideas.
     Example: Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock... (Genesis 3:14)
181. Innuendo – An indirect or subtle reference, often with a hidden meaning or implication.
     Example: Is not this the carpenter's son? (Matthew 13:55)
182. Interrogatio – Asking questions to make a point rather than to elicit an answer.
     Example: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? (Genesis 18:25)
183. Invective – Harsh, critical language directed against a person or thing.
     Example: You brood of vipers! (Matthew 3:7)
184. Irony – Expressing meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, often for humorous or emphatic effect.
     Example: Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened. (1 Kings 18:27)
185. Logismos – Reasoning or logical argumentation within speech or writing.
     Example: Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord... (Isaiah 1:18)
186. Metalepsis – Reference to something by means of another thing to which it is remotely related.
     Example: He has Abraham and the prophets; let them hear them. (Luke 16:29)
187. Metaplasmus – Intentionally misspelling a word for rhetorical effect.
     Example: Common in Hebrew poetry (not a direct Bible example).
188. Onomatopoeia – Words that imitate natural sounds.
     Example: The floods have lifted up their voice... (Psalm 93:3)
189. Parabola – A comparison or analogy drawn from nature or common life.
     Example: The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed... (Matthew 13:31)
190. Paradiastole – Distinguishing between two things by emphasizing their differences.
     Example: Not the letter but the spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:6)
191. Paralipsis – Pretending to omit something by drawing attention to it.
     Example: I could mention your generosity, but I won’t. (general rhetorical device)
192. Paranomasia – Pun or play on words.
     Example: You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18)
193. Parenthesis – Insertion of a word or phrase that interrupts the flow.
     Example: (Let the reader understand) (Matthew 24:15)
194. Paronomasia – Play on words; pun.
     Example: You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church. (Matthew 16:18)
195. Periphrasis – Substitution of a descriptive word or phrase for a proper name.
     Example: The city of David (for Jerusalem). (Luke 2:4)
196. Pleonasm – Use of more words than necessary to convey meaning.
     Example: I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear. (Job 42:5)
197. Polyptoton – Repetition of words derived from the same root.
     Example: Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. (Hebrews 4:11)
198. Polysyndeton – Use of several conjunctions in close succession.
     Example: And the rain descended and the floods came and the winds blew and beat on that house... (Matthew 7:25)
199. Praeteritio – Pretending to omit something by drawing attention to it.
     Example: I will not mention... (general rhetorical device)
200. Procatalepsis – Anticipating an objection and answering it.
     Example: But some will ask, “How are the dead raised?” With what kind of body do they come? (1 Corinthians 15:35)
201. Prolepsis – Speaking of something future as though already done or existing.
     Example: I have given you Jericho into your hand... (Joshua 6:2)
202. Prosopopoeia – Speaking as another person or object; personification.
     Example: Wisdom cries aloud in the street... (Proverbs 1:20)
203. Redundancy – Repetition or superfluity of information.
     Example: He answered and said... (Matthew 4:4)
204. Repetitio – Repetition for emphasis.
     Example: Truly, truly, I say to you... (John 3:3)
205. Rhetorical Question – Asking a question for effect, not expecting an answer.
     Example: If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)
206. Simile – A direct comparison using "like" or "as."
     Example: He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water... (Psalm 1:3)
207. Syllepsis – A word applied to two others in different senses.
     Example: He lost his coat and his temper. (general rhetorical device)
208. Symploce – Combination of anaphora and epistrophe: repetition at both the beginning and end of successive clauses.
     Example: When there is talk of violence, let us stand up and talk against it. When there is talk of hatred, let us stand up and talk against it. (general rhetorical device)
209. Synathroesmus – Listing of adjectives, often in quick succession.
     Example: ...haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil... (Romans 1:30)
210. Syncrisis – Comparison and contrast of persons, events, or things.
     Example: For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:5)
211. Synecdoche – A part is made to represent the whole or vice versa.
     Example: Give us this day our daily bread (bread = all food). (Matthew 6:11)
212. Synesthesia – Describing one sense in terms of another.
     Example: Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Psalm 34:8)
213. Tautology – Repetition of an idea in a different word, phrase, or sentence.
     Example: He will rise up, yes, he will rise up. (general rhetorical device)
214. Zeugma – A word applies to multiple parts of the sentence.
     Example: He took his hat and his leave. (general rhetorical device)

[Some] Sources: [Kirk Miller: Literary/Rhetorical Devices in the Bible] [Let God Be True: Figures of Speech] [VirtualSalt: Biblical Examples of Rhetorical Devices] [The Oneness of God: Biblical Metaphors & Figures of Speech] [Equipped Servant: Mastering Biblical Metaphors]

based on a synthesis of the most comprehensive and respected scholarly sources on biblical literary techniques. Here are the key sources that informed and support the compilation:

• The list of 200 rhetorical and figurative devices I provided is based on a synthesis of the most comprehensive and respected scholarly sources on biblical literary techniques. Here are the key sources that informed and support the compilation:

  • E.W. Bullinger, "Figures of Speech Used in the Bible" – The classic and most exhaustive reference, cataloging 217 devices, and the foundation for most modern lists

    Robert A. Harris, "Biblical Examples of Rhetorical Devices" (VirtualSalt PDF) – A supplement to "Writing with Clarity and Style," providing hundreds of biblical examples and detailed device descriptions

    Kirk E. Miller, "Literary/Rhetorical Devices in the Bible" – A curated list of devices with explanations and scriptural examples

    CARM.org, "What kinds of literary techniques are used in the Bible?" – An accessible overview of major literary and rhetorical forms in Scripture

    Bible.org, "IV. Literary Forms in the Bible" – Discussion of forms and figures of speech in biblical texts

    Other educational and reference resources (e.g., Babbel, Joyful Moments in Christ, MyBiblicalStudy) for additional examples and definitions

    - https://www.perplexity.ai/search/i-contend-that-atheism-is-a-po-neQZZp0PQIGqXZIM6YBm8g#80