Hebrew Parallelism

Synthetic parallelism involves the construction of parallel lines where the second line completes or extends the thought of the first line. It goes beyond mere repetition and adds new information or elaboration to the initial idea. The lines work together to convey a more comprehensive message.

Nephi's verse here is an example of Hebrew Synthetic Parallelism:

2 Nephi 11:15 
And as one generation hath been destroyed among the Jews
   because of iniquity,
Even so have they been destroyed from generation to generation 
   according to their iniquities;
(LDS: 2 Nephi 25:9)

The first line explains, the second line expands.

Nephi's writings also display Hebrew Synonymous Parallelism:

2 Nephi 11:48 
And we talk of Christ,
We rejoice in Christ,
We preach of Christ,
We prophesy of Christ,
And we write according to our prophecies.
That our children may know to what source they may look
    for a remission of their sins.
(LDS: 2 Nephi 25:26)

But the beauty and complexity of the Book of Mormon comes to view when we consider how multiple Parallelism types are woven together in words that are plain to understand.

Consider Nephi's writing in the next verse. He combines both Synthetic and Synonymous Parallelism:

2 Nephi 11:78 

And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews that Jesus is the very Christ,
It must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also
that Jesus is the Christ, 
the Eternal God.

And that He manifesteth Himself unto all they that believe in Him
by the power of the Holy Ghost.

(LDS: 2 Nephi 26:13)

1. "And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews that Jesus is the very Christ,"
2. "It must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God,"

This illustrates Synthetic Parallelism. The second line builds upon the first, extending the idea from the Jews to the Gentiles and emphasizing that Jesus is not just the Christ but also the Eternal God.

In contrast, Synonymous Parallelism involves expressing the same or similar ideas using different words or phrases. In the same verse, an example of synonymous parallelism is:

- "Concerning the convincing of the Jews that Jesus is the very Christ"
- "It must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God"

Here, the parallel lines restate the central theme using different language but with a similar meaning, emphasizing the universal conviction of Jesus as the Christ.

The writing is beautiful. Consider that Nephite writers exceeded others in their understanding of language.

Summary:

• Hebrew Synthetic parallelism involves constructing parallel lines that build upon or complete each other.
• Hebrew Synonymous parallelism emphasizes expressing similar or equivalent ideas in parallel lines for reinforcement.
• Both Synthetic and Synonymous (and more) weave throughout the Book of Mormon.