This week in class, we talked a lot about similes and metaphors. Find three examples of metaphor or simile in the New American Bible. Present all three in the blog and choose one that resonates with you and tell us why.
When I first saw the assignment for this weeks blog, I thought it would be difficult to find similes and metaphors in the Bible. I began searching for some by simply starting in Genesis and reading. I found this approach to be difficult because I could not find any. I then thought of some of the most famous Bible verses. The first one that popped into my head was "I am the vines and you are the branches." (John 15:5). This verse has been repeated at church and other places many times. When you step back and look at the verse it is a metaphor. Jesus is saying that the apostles are the branches because they rely on the vines for the nutrients they need to grow and produce fruit. He is telling the apostles, and all his followers that they must follow him and devote their lives to him if they want eternal life. This verse uses a metaphor very successfully.
The next instance of figurative language in the Bible is a metaphor that, again, is commonly used. The verse, "The Lord is my Shepard" is a metaphor. This metaphor is saying that God is the leader of us, and we must follow him to go where we need to. This quote is powerful when it is analyzed completely. Without a Shepard, sheep would be unable to care for themselves. They would quickly become food for their predators. A Shepard is there to make sure that nothing harms their sheep. This metaphor is showing that Jesus is our Shepard, and he is always there for us to ensure that no harm is done. I think that this is a very important verse because it shows how much Jesus cares for us.
The final instance of figurative language that I found in the bible was a simile. Jesus was taking about hypocrites and he said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. "(Matthew 23:27). This quote by Jesus is comparing the hypocrites to tombs which look as if they are good and innocent on the outside, but are terrible on this inside. This quote is very powerful and resinated with me for many reasons. The quote takes place when Jesus is upset because of the hypocrites. This is one of the few times Jesus is upset in the Bible. Another reason that the quote stuck out to me was because it still holds true today, and is easy to understand. Unlike the vines and branches metaphor which is hard to understand, this quote uses something that everyone can understand, tombs. This simile shows that hypocrites (sinners) can look clean and good on the outside, but are bad on the inside. This is still true today with a lot of people.
Luke, Nice blog! After I read mine over then looked at yours I saw that we think the same and that our blogs have a lot of similar ideas. I like how you said hypocrites can look good on the outside but they can be misleading. And heck, it is very true that people still do it these days. Nice!
Kraus, Wow. This was a really nicely done job. I think that you did a really nice job with the quote that resonated with you the most. I actually think that quote is amazing. I think that it says so much about people, especially today. I really liked that you made a modern connection with today’s society as well. Your other two quotes were also really nice. I commend you.
There are definitely tons and tons of metaphors and similies in the Bible, but as Luke said, they were kind of hard to find. And then I started thinking and I realized that all of the I Am statements and analogies that Jesus used were all metaphors. For example: take "I am the good Shepard and you are my flock" (John 10:11). He is telling the disciples, or the sheep, to rely on him and his teachings. Jesus promised to take care of them and feed, and guide them the right way in life.
The next example is of a simile. The similes were a little bit harder to find, but I still came up with a few examples. For example, take Matthew 28:3, which describes the Resurrection. "His appearance was like lightning and his clothes were white as snow." The usage of the word like makes this a simile. The Resurrection, in my opinion, was the most glorious scene or happening that has ever taken place in the history of mankind. It is hard to imagine it because it was such an intense moment. Matthew even describes it with very powerful, moving adjectives. His appearance was like lightning. His clothes were white as snow. This happening was truly the work of God.
The third example is another simile, which I thought was kind of cool. I was skimming through some random books of the Bible and I found a really awesome verse in Hebrews 11:12. It says God has " Descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore." This simile shows that God's creation, the universe and all of the things in it, is so big and so detailed. I know big and detailed are pretty lame words, but this is because God's universe is indescribable. There seriously not one word that can describe it but this. I really can't tell exactly why this quote sticks out to me, because I like it for so many reasons. First he compares it to a beach. Beaches are beautiful, and so is the universe. I found that was a pretty clever analogy. Second comparing all of the people in the world to sand is overwhelming. Overall I just think this quote is really cool. I've probably seen it before but this is the only time where it really stuck out to me.
Matt Bobby, I really liked your use of your last quote. I actually used that one as well, but I never even thought of it the way you did. I love the way you did think of it, though. That was amazing. I mean how do you describe something so big? I don’t even think that anyone can. I think that your connection to the I Am analogies was also really good. I really didn’t even think of those. You did a really nice job this week.
Awww! Your blog is so pretty! Haha! Seriously, though, I love the similes and metaphors you chose from the Bible. The simile that describes Jesus' resurrection is what really gives that glorious scene its majesty, and you pointed that out perfectly in your blog. Also, the simile that you discovered to describe the universe is simply breathtaking. It is hard to fathom someone or something creating this complex and dynamic planet, but God did it. And that simile really captures the essence of that with the "sand on the seashore" and "the stars in the sky". The only thing that I would have liked to see a bit more of is how one of these similes or metaphors resonated in your life. Other than that, awesome blog, Matt!
Great Blog. I agree with you that the I am statements are a great source of similies and metaphors. You had some great points in your blog and had some good quotes. I thought the example of the Resurection wasa great. Keep up the good work.
When I first saw this blog assignment I was skeptical. I thought it was going to take a really long time to do. It didn’t though. I started with Matthew’s gospel. I have always sort of liked this one so what better place to start. I actually found two solid examples that I really liked, and from there looking for the figurative language wasn’t so hard.
My first example of simile in the Bible is “Descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore” [Heb. 11:12]. I liked this simile because it says so much with two simple comparisons. By comparing Abraham’s descendants to the stars and the sand the immensity of his people is so easily illustrated. God says that he will have an infinite number of people, and these people will love him and know him. God also says he knows us each by name, and I think that that relationship with God is important. This quote shows the immensity not only of Abraham’s descendants, but the immensity of God.
My second example is a metaphor. The quote that I used is "this is my body" and "this is my blood of the covenant"[Matt. 26:26-28]. I know that this is two quotes, but they go together. They are probably two of the most important quotes in the entire bible. They are also great metaphors. Jesus people that the bread is his body and the wine is his blood. That is such a good metaphor. He is telling his disciples that he is the Eucharist, which goes with his teachings of all things happen through God. I think this metaphor is a powerful example of the wonders of God.
The third example that I have is a simile, and it is my favorite example. It is “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field” [Matt. 13:44]. I absolutely love this quote. I think that it says so much with one simple comparison. I think that this quote is used for two purposes. The first one is to remind people that think of heaven as a beautiful place that is easy to enter because God is forgiving. I think that this quote reminds them that the kingdom of heaven is not easy to enter, but requires work. I also think that this quote is used for salvation to others. It is positive because it is telling everyone that heaven is available to them as long as they are willing to work for it. I personally chose to go with the more positive feeling with this quote, but I think that people today need reminded that you don’t get into heaven because you want to. You get in because you deserve it and have worked hard for it.
I thought this blog was going to be rough, but it proved me wrong. I am glad about that though. It has actually been very uplifting.
I love all of your similes and metaphors! I love the first simile!! I already described my liking for it in my comment on Matt's blog so please feel free to snoop. Haha! Your other simile is very beautiful as well as it describes the Kingdom of Heaven. Heaven is such a mystical and absolutely wonderful place, and I think this simile really captures that feel. What I really love about your blog is the metaphor you chose. It is literally the metaphor of our Catholic faith. The "body" and "blood" of Christ are symbolized in bread and wine in our faith. This is a beautiful metaphor and I am so glad you utilized it! Your explanations of all your similes and metaphors were great too, Megan! Excellent blog!
I also really like your first simile. I think that it is a beautiful quote and I am so glad that you and Matt found it. I also really enjoyed your metaphor, it one of those quotes from the Bible that you didn't even realize was a metaphor until learning about them in class. I know that I never even thought that it was a metaphor until I read your blog. I also used your last example of a simile, I found it to be very inspiring and I am glad that you liked it too. Great job!
Similes and metaphors are everywhere! It’s crazy! It seems like with each passing day I am discovering more and more of them in my everyday life. How could I be so blind? These literary devices are often found in the common world such as in pop songs, advertisements, TV shows, and even the holy Bible.
Even Jesus used metaphors! Jesus’ parables can often be considered metaphors. “The Lesson of the Fig Tree” is a beautiful metaphoric parable that describes the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven. In Luke 21: 29-33 Jesus compares the blossoming of fig leaves to the events that will precede the end of the world. He says, “When you see the fig leaves beginning to appear, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, you will know that the Kingdom of God is about to come.” Jesus is referring to the “Son of Man coming in a cloud with great power and glory” and “the Days of Punishment” found in Luke 21: 25-28. He compares all of these events in a beautiful metaphor to a fig tree and its blooming leaves right before the summer. In other words, listen to God’s words and be attentive for the coming of the Son of God, just like one would look forward to the birth of fig leaves before the season of summer.
Metaphors are not the only literary device that hangs out in the Bible; similes also find their places in the scriptures as well. One intriguing simile found in Proverbs 9:13 is “Stupidity is like a loud, ignorant, shameless woman.” This parable compares stupidity to basically an obnoxious and crazy woman. Well-done, scripture writers. Thank you for choosing a woman to compare to stupidity. I digress. Anyway, this simile provides readers with an image of a boisterous woman sitting outside of her house beckoning for people to eat and drink stolen goods, because they “taste” better. In other words, only foolish people steal items from others. And only stupid people boast about their wicked deeds.
I discovered a unique metaphor in the Bible that I never was aware of until now. It is from 1 Timothy 5:18 and it says, “Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, the laborer is worthy of his reward.” This is a metaphor that compares a person who works diligently to a laboring ox. This scripture signifies that a man who works hard in the name of God to spread his word and perform good deeds is like an ox that labors for his master. This parable demands that no one should attempt to silence or stop men who evangelize the word and praises of God to others; just like no one should try to halt oxen when they are doing an important chore to provide food for others. The underlying meaning of the metaphoric parable is that whoever works with unrelenting effort for God will be rewarded for his or her labors by entering the kingdom of Heaven.
I like to relate the “ox” parable to my own life. The metaphor of the ox and laborer gives me courage for some reason. It makes me think that I should be able to proclaim and live the Word of God, and that no one should stop me or tell me to do otherwise. I often times am not the good, faithful Christian that I should be. Sometimes, I am not as enthusiastic about my beliefs as I want to be. This metaphor gives provides me with strength. It inspires me to do good deeds in the name of God and be kind to others, even if it seems lame or difficult. No one can “muzzle” me. My ultimate goal in life is to one day be with God in Heaven. In this metaphor God clearly states, “The laborer is worthy of his reward.” I want nothing more than that reward. This metaphor inspires me to obey and try to be the best person I can be so that I can reach my goal – Heaven. Who knew that a metaphor could be so inspiring?
I love your examples of similes and metaphors, I especially enjoy the one about stupidity. I do however find it unfair that they compare stupidity to women. But this just goes to show how different society is today than it was back then. I found your example of the ox to be very good. I agree with you that the quote is very inspiring. It inspires me to try to bring others closer to God and even though it might be very hard to do, it is very important to try so that I can be rewarded in Heaven. This very relevant to what we were talking about in Theology, about a week ago. Great Job!
I know we were discussing our blogs at the football game so I feel compelled to comment on yours!
Your blog was really in depth, which was good! You pulled quotes from various areas of the bible and gave in depth explanations of each metaphor or simile you used. I liked the ox story too. I liked the way you connected with that story and was able to share that with us. Your reaction to the simile regarding women was hilarious. Such kind biblical scholars.
Similes and metaphors are very common in the Bible. I have found that most of the most famous quotes from the Bible are either a simile or a metaphor. Such as this metaphor, "I am the vine, you are the branches" found in John 15:5. In this Jesus is comparing himself to a vine that branches off in many different places representing all of his followers. This quote has been used quite often throughout our lives, I personally feel that I have heard it a thousand times. However it never occurred to me that it is actually a metaphor.
The second example that I found is a simile. It comes from Matthew 10:16, "Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves." Jesus is telling his followers to be aware that there are many others out in the world that will deter their faith, they are compared to wolves. Jesus also tells us to be cunning like a snake but be as peaceful as doves, so that we are able to convert more followers.
The third example that I found is also a simile, it is also found in Matthew 13:44, "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field." This is saying that the kingdom of heaven is a treasure that is hard to find, but like hidden treasure once it is found your hard work pays off. I found this quote to be very appealing to me because our ultimate goal is to gain entrance to heaven. However, to earn this access it requires a large amount of work, which includes helping other and sacrificing your time for those who are in need. This is often hard to accomplish but, heaven is our greatest reward and that is where all of hard work will finally pay off.
I found the gospels to be full of similes and metaphors, this sort of surprised me, because it is the gospel that we really listen to every Friday and every weekend. Some of these quotes I know that I have heard of and never would have guessed that they are similes or metaphors. I am sure that I have heard countless of examples these litany devices, but I never even recognized them as literary devices. Now, that my eyes have opened to these literary devices I will recognize them immediately, who would have guessed that these devices are constantly used throughout the Bible.
I liked the phrases that you used. I too was drawn to the phrases I had heard most often throughout my life, but had never before registered that they were actually a metaphor or a simile. I particularly liked the simile regarding the wolves as I almost used that one as well. I think it is such a powerful image to illustrate the apostles being sent into the world. The only thing I would have liked to have seen in your blog was the identifying of one particular metaphor or simile that you connected with on a personal level. But I really did like your blog overall. It's amazing of we hear a phrase so many times but never recognize what it really is or means. Nice job!
I agree with your blog. I think that the bible, much like most pop culture, is full of devices that are ovelooked. I think that these devices are found in the most common verses, such as John 15:5 that you refrenced. I also liked how you said that the Gospel is full of devices, and we hear them every week. This is very true. Nice Blog.
I feel like the Bible has to be at least 45% metaphors and similes. Maybe more. The Bible's incessant us of figurative language adds to the mystery of the words spoken. Or at least it does to me. The act of uncovering the truth behind the words parallels the way we seek God in everyday life.
The first example I found was "Ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which outwardly appear beautiful, but inwardly are full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness." (Mathew 23:27). This is an example of a simile, given that it possesses the word "like" to equate a person to a sepulchres. I had to look up what that meant and found that it is a small room with the intended use of burial. When these words are being uttered by Jesus they were directed at the hypocrites. Describing the "whited", or pleasant, front they put up as opposed to their corrupt nature inside. Their dark insides are represented by the image of dead bodies. Certainly not a pleasant picture to paint. I liked this particular simile because it uses very harsh and crude imagery to convey a point. Jesus was condemning hypocrites for their actions and calling them out for it and the effect he desired could only be achieved by using such a grotesque image as that of dead bodies.
The next example of figurative language is found in 1Corinthians 3:16. It reads, "Know ye not that ye are the Temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?". I liked this particular metaphor for its commonality. It seems we so often hear that we are "Temples of God" when describing the sanctity of our bodies, both physically and spiritually, and the need to maintain these "temples". I believe a metaphor is more effective in this scenario than a simile. By using a metaphor, the reader is forced to literally view themselves as a sacred resting place of the Lord, instead of merely being "like" one. In this way the words are more impactful in conveying a message of physical and spiritual preservation to the readers.
The last of the three examples is another one I was drawn to because I have heard it so many times before. The quote comes from John 8:12 and reads "I am the Light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." The quote is pulled from the story of the adulteress who is presented before Jesus. When the men who brought her ask if she should not be stoned for her crimes as stated by the Law of Moses, Jesus replies with saying that the man without sin shall cast the first stone. Needless to say, no stone was cast. I've always loved this story and, in turn, love the metaphor that is in use. Jesus makes comparison to himself as light repeatedly, because light is a sign of ultimate goodness. He is not literally a light, but he possesses the same qualities that light has come to represent.
The last of these three examples holds a special place in my heart, primarily because of the story it is drawn from. Jesus's point was so simply and so powerfully made. We so often condemn the actions of others without realizing that we make just as many mistakes and are no better then the accused at times. It is often despairing to consider this possibility, however, Jesus' talk of himself as light provides a shimmering glimmer of optimism. The image of Jesus being a light to follow, a goal to attain, gives the readers a hope of salvation.
I like your selection of metaphors and similes. The examples were well picked and each one has a lot of meaning behind it. I don't know why but when I start reading something you write I get hooked onto it because your writing is so full. There is so many details packed into paragraphs, which I really really like. But anyways your third example is the one I liked the most because Jesus stood up for that woman and turned down an entire crowd of people. That story always strikes me too. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteWhen I first saw the assignment for this weeks blog, I thought it would be difficult to find similes and metaphors in the Bible. I began searching for some by simply starting in Genesis and reading. I found this approach to be difficult because I could not find any. I then thought of some of the most famous Bible verses. The first one that popped into my head was "I am the vines and you are the branches." (John 15:5). This verse has been repeated at church and other places many times. When you step back and look at the verse it is a metaphor. Jesus is saying that the apostles are the branches because they rely on the vines for the nutrients they need to grow and produce fruit. He is telling the apostles, and all his followers that they must follow him and devote their lives to him if they want eternal life. This verse uses a metaphor very successfully.
The next instance of figurative language in the Bible is a metaphor that, again, is commonly used. The verse, "The Lord is my Shepard" is a metaphor. This metaphor is saying that God is the leader of us, and we must follow him to go where we need to. This quote is powerful when it is analyzed completely. Without a Shepard, sheep would be unable to care for themselves. They would quickly become food for their predators. A Shepard is there to make sure that nothing harms their sheep. This metaphor is showing that Jesus is our Shepard, and he is always there for us to ensure that no harm is done. I think that this is a very important verse because it shows how much Jesus cares for us.
The final instance of figurative language that I found in the bible was a simile. Jesus was taking about hypocrites and he said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. "(Matthew 23:27). This quote by Jesus is comparing the hypocrites to tombs which look as if they are good and innocent on the outside, but are terrible on this inside. This quote is very powerful and resinated with me for many reasons. The quote takes place when Jesus is upset because of the hypocrites. This is one of the few times Jesus is upset in the Bible. Another reason that the quote stuck out to me was because it still holds true today, and is easy to understand. Unlike the vines and branches metaphor which is hard to understand, this quote uses something that everyone can understand, tombs. This simile shows that hypocrites (sinners) can look clean and good on the outside, but are bad on the inside. This is still true today with a lot of people.
Luke,
DeleteNice blog! After I read mine over then looked at yours I saw that we think the same and that our blogs have a lot of similar ideas. I like how you said hypocrites can look good on the outside but they can be misleading. And heck, it is very true that people still do it these days. Nice!
Kraus,
DeleteWow. This was a really nicely done job. I think that you did a really nice job with the quote that resonated with you the most. I actually think that quote is amazing. I think that it says so much about people, especially today. I really liked that you made a modern connection with today’s society as well. Your other two quotes were also really nice. I commend you.
There are definitely tons and tons of metaphors and similies in the Bible, but as Luke said, they were kind of hard to find. And then I started thinking and I realized that all of the I Am statements and analogies that Jesus used were all metaphors. For example: take "I am the good Shepard and you are my flock" (John 10:11). He is telling the disciples, or the sheep, to rely on him and his teachings. Jesus promised to take care of them and feed, and guide them the right way in life.
ReplyDeleteThe next example is of a simile. The similes were a little bit harder to find, but I still came up with a few examples. For example, take Matthew 28:3, which describes the Resurrection. "His appearance was like lightning and his clothes were white as snow." The usage of the word like makes this a simile. The Resurrection, in my opinion, was the most glorious scene or happening that has ever taken place in the history of mankind. It is hard to imagine it because it was such an intense moment. Matthew even describes it with very powerful, moving adjectives. His appearance was like lightning. His clothes were white as snow. This happening was truly the work of God.
The third example is another simile, which I thought was kind of cool. I was skimming through some random books of the Bible and I found a really awesome verse in Hebrews 11:12. It says God has " Descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore." This simile shows that God's creation, the universe and all of the things in it, is so big and so detailed. I know big and detailed are pretty lame words, but this is because God's universe is indescribable. There seriously not one word that can describe it but this. I really can't tell exactly why this quote sticks out to me, because I like it for so many reasons. First he compares it to a beach. Beaches are beautiful, and so is the universe. I found that was a pretty clever analogy. Second comparing all of the people in the world to sand is overwhelming. Overall I just think this quote is really cool. I've probably seen it before but this is the only time where it really stuck out to me.
Matt Bobby,
DeleteI really liked your use of your last quote. I actually used that one as well, but I never even thought of it the way you did. I love the way you did think of it, though. That was amazing. I mean how do you describe something so big? I don’t even think that anyone can. I think that your connection to the I Am analogies was also really good. I really didn’t even think of those. You did a really nice job this week.
Matt Bobby,
DeleteAwww! Your blog is so pretty!
Haha! Seriously, though, I love the similes and metaphors you chose from the Bible. The simile that describes Jesus' resurrection is what really gives that glorious scene its majesty, and you pointed that out perfectly in your blog. Also, the simile that you discovered to describe the universe is simply breathtaking. It is hard to fathom someone or something creating this complex and dynamic planet, but God did it. And that simile really captures the essence of that with the "sand on the seashore" and "the stars in the sky".
The only thing that I would have liked to see a bit more of is how one of these similes or metaphors resonated in your life. Other than that, awesome blog, Matt!
Matt Bobby,
DeleteGreat Blog. I agree with you that the I am statements are a great source of similies and metaphors. You had some great points in your blog and had some good quotes. I thought the example of the Resurection wasa great. Keep up the good work.
When I first saw this blog assignment I was skeptical. I thought it was going to take a really long time to do. It didn’t though. I started with Matthew’s gospel. I have always sort of liked this one so what better place to start. I actually found two solid examples that I really liked, and from there looking for the figurative language wasn’t so hard.
ReplyDeleteMy first example of simile in the Bible is “Descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore” [Heb. 11:12]. I liked this simile because it says so much with two simple comparisons. By comparing Abraham’s descendants to the stars and the sand the immensity of his people is so easily illustrated. God says that he will have an infinite number of people, and these people will love him and know him. God also says he knows us each by name, and I think that that relationship with God is important. This quote shows the immensity not only of Abraham’s descendants, but the immensity of God.
My second example is a metaphor. The quote that I used is "this is my body" and "this is my blood of the covenant"[Matt. 26:26-28]. I know that this is two quotes, but they go together. They are probably two of the most important quotes in the entire bible. They are also great metaphors. Jesus people that the bread is his body and the wine is his blood. That is such a good metaphor. He is telling his disciples that he is the Eucharist, which goes with his teachings of all things happen through God. I think this metaphor is a powerful example of the wonders of God.
The third example that I have is a simile, and it is my favorite example. It is “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field” [Matt. 13:44]. I absolutely love this quote. I think that it says so much with one simple comparison. I think that this quote is used for two purposes. The first one is to remind people that think of heaven as a beautiful place that is easy to enter because God is forgiving. I think that this quote reminds them that the kingdom of heaven is not easy to enter, but requires work. I also think that this quote is used for salvation to others. It is positive because it is telling everyone that heaven is available to them as long as they are willing to work for it. I personally chose to go with the more positive feeling with this quote, but I think that people today need reminded that you don’t get into heaven because you want to. You get in because you deserve it and have worked hard for it.
I thought this blog was going to be rough, but it proved me wrong. I am glad about that though. It has actually been very uplifting.
Megan McKenna,
DeleteI love all of your similes and metaphors!
I love the first simile!! I already described my liking for it in my comment on Matt's blog so please feel free to snoop. Haha!
Your other simile is very beautiful as well as it describes the Kingdom of Heaven. Heaven is such a mystical and absolutely wonderful place, and I think this simile really captures that feel.
What I really love about your blog is the metaphor you chose. It is literally the metaphor of our Catholic faith. The "body" and "blood" of Christ are symbolized in bread and wine in our faith. This is a beautiful metaphor and I am so glad you utilized it! Your explanations of all your similes and metaphors were great too, Megan! Excellent blog!
Megan,
DeleteI also really like your first simile. I think that it is a beautiful quote and I am so glad that you and Matt found it. I also really enjoyed your metaphor, it one of those quotes from the Bible that you didn't even realize was a metaphor until learning about them in class. I know that I never even thought that it was a metaphor until I read your blog. I also used your last example of a simile, I found it to be very inspiring and I am glad that you liked it too. Great job!
Similes and metaphors are everywhere! It’s crazy! It seems like with each passing day I am discovering more and more of them in my everyday life. How could I be so blind? These literary devices are often found in the common world such as in pop songs, advertisements, TV shows, and even the holy Bible.
ReplyDeleteEven Jesus used metaphors! Jesus’ parables can often be considered metaphors. “The Lesson of the Fig Tree” is a beautiful metaphoric parable that describes the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven. In Luke 21: 29-33 Jesus compares the blossoming of fig leaves to the events that will precede the end of the world. He says, “When you see the fig leaves beginning to appear, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, you will know that the Kingdom of God is about to come.” Jesus is referring to the “Son of Man coming in a cloud with great power and glory” and “the Days of Punishment” found in Luke 21: 25-28. He compares all of these events in a beautiful metaphor to a fig tree and its blooming leaves right before the summer. In other words, listen to God’s words and be attentive for the coming of the Son of God, just like one would look forward to the birth of fig leaves before the season of summer.
Metaphors are not the only literary device that hangs out in the Bible; similes also find their places in the scriptures as well. One intriguing simile found in Proverbs 9:13 is “Stupidity is like a loud, ignorant, shameless woman.” This parable compares stupidity to basically an obnoxious and crazy woman. Well-done, scripture writers. Thank you for choosing a woman to compare to stupidity. I digress. Anyway, this simile provides readers with an image of a boisterous woman sitting outside of her house beckoning for people to eat and drink stolen goods, because they “taste” better. In other words, only foolish people steal items from others. And only stupid people boast about their wicked deeds.
I discovered a unique metaphor in the Bible that I never was aware of until now. It is from 1 Timothy 5:18 and it says, “Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, the laborer is worthy of his reward.” This is a metaphor that compares a person who works diligently to a laboring ox. This scripture signifies that a man who works hard in the name of God to spread his word and perform good deeds is like an ox that labors for his master. This parable demands that no one should attempt to silence or stop men who evangelize the word and praises of God to others; just like no one should try to halt oxen when they are doing an important chore to provide food for others. The underlying meaning of the metaphoric parable is that whoever works with unrelenting effort for God will be rewarded for his or her labors by entering the kingdom of Heaven.
I like to relate the “ox” parable to my own life. The metaphor of the ox and laborer gives me courage for some reason. It makes me think that I should be able to proclaim and live the Word of God, and that no one should stop me or tell me to do otherwise. I often times am not the good, faithful Christian that I should be. Sometimes, I am not as enthusiastic about my beliefs as I want to be. This metaphor gives provides me with strength. It inspires me to do good deeds in the name of God and be kind to others, even if it seems lame or difficult. No one can “muzzle” me. My ultimate goal in life is to one day be with God in Heaven. In this metaphor God clearly states, “The laborer is worthy of his reward.” I want nothing more than that reward. This metaphor inspires me to obey and try to be the best person I can be so that I can reach my goal – Heaven. Who knew that a metaphor could be so inspiring?
Rachel,
DeleteI love your examples of similes and metaphors, I especially enjoy the one about stupidity. I do however find it unfair that they compare stupidity to women. But this just goes to show how different society is today than it was back then. I found your example of the ox to be very good. I agree with you that the quote is very inspiring. It inspires me to try to bring others closer to God and even though it might be very hard to do, it is very important to try so that I can be rewarded in Heaven. This very relevant to what we were talking about in Theology, about a week ago. Great Job!
Rachel,
DeleteI know we were discussing our blogs at the football game so I feel compelled to comment on yours!
Your blog was really in depth, which was good! You pulled quotes from various areas of the bible and gave in depth explanations of each metaphor or simile you used. I liked the ox story too. I liked the way you connected with that story and was able to share that with us. Your reaction to the simile regarding women was hilarious. Such kind biblical scholars.
Your blog was entertaining, Rachel. nice job!
Similes and metaphors are very common in the Bible. I have found that most of the most famous quotes from the Bible are either a simile or a metaphor. Such as this metaphor, "I am the vine, you are the branches" found in John 15:5. In this Jesus is comparing himself to a vine that branches off in many different places representing all of his followers. This quote has been used quite often throughout our lives, I personally feel that I have heard it a thousand times. However it never occurred to me that it is actually a metaphor.
ReplyDeleteThe second example that I found is a simile. It comes from Matthew 10:16, "Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves." Jesus is telling his followers to be aware that there are many others out in the world that will deter their faith, they are compared to wolves. Jesus also tells us to be cunning like a snake but be as peaceful as doves, so that we are able to convert more followers.
The third example that I found is also a simile, it is also found in Matthew 13:44, "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field." This is saying that the kingdom of heaven is a treasure that is hard to find, but like hidden treasure once it is found your hard work pays off. I found this quote to be very appealing to me because our ultimate goal is to gain entrance to heaven. However, to earn this access it requires a large amount of work, which includes helping other and sacrificing your time for those who are in need. This is often hard to accomplish but, heaven is our greatest reward and that is where all of hard work will finally pay off.
I found the gospels to be full of similes and metaphors, this sort of surprised me, because it is the gospel that we really listen to every Friday and every weekend. Some of these quotes I know that I have heard of and never would have guessed that they are similes or metaphors. I am sure that I have heard countless of examples these litany devices, but I never even recognized them as literary devices. Now, that my eyes have opened to these literary devices I will recognize them immediately, who would have guessed that these devices are constantly used throughout the Bible.
Michaela,
DeleteI liked the phrases that you used. I too was drawn to the phrases I had heard most often throughout my life, but had never before registered that they were actually a metaphor or a simile. I particularly liked the simile regarding the wolves as I almost used that one as well. I think it is such a powerful image to illustrate the apostles being sent into the world. The only thing I would have liked to have seen in your blog was the identifying of one particular metaphor or simile that you connected with on a personal level. But I really did like your blog overall. It's amazing of we hear a phrase so many times but never recognize what it really is or means. Nice job!
Michaela,
DeleteI agree with your blog. I think that the bible, much like most pop culture, is full of devices that are ovelooked. I think that these devices are found in the most common verses, such as John 15:5 that you refrenced. I also liked how you said that the Gospel is full of devices, and we hear them every week. This is very true. Nice Blog.
I feel like the Bible has to be at least 45% metaphors and similes. Maybe more. The Bible's incessant us of figurative language adds to the mystery of the words spoken. Or at least it does to me. The act of uncovering the truth behind the words parallels the way we seek God in everyday life.
ReplyDeleteThe first example I found was "Ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which outwardly appear beautiful, but inwardly are full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness." (Mathew 23:27). This is an example of a simile, given that it possesses the word "like" to equate a person to a sepulchres. I had to look up what that meant and found that it is a small room with the intended use of burial. When these words are being uttered by Jesus they were directed at the hypocrites. Describing the "whited", or pleasant, front they put up as opposed to their corrupt nature inside. Their dark insides are represented by the image of dead bodies. Certainly not a pleasant picture to paint. I liked this particular simile because it uses very harsh and crude imagery to convey a point. Jesus was condemning hypocrites for their actions and calling them out for it and the effect he desired could only be achieved by using such a grotesque image as that of dead bodies.
The next example of figurative language is found in 1Corinthians 3:16. It reads, "Know ye not that ye are the Temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?". I liked this particular metaphor for its commonality. It seems we so often hear that we are "Temples of God" when describing the sanctity of our bodies, both physically and spiritually, and the need to maintain these "temples". I believe a metaphor is more effective in this scenario than a simile. By using a metaphor, the reader is forced to literally view themselves as a sacred resting place of the Lord, instead of merely being "like" one. In this way the words are more impactful in conveying a message of physical and spiritual preservation to the readers.
The last of the three examples is another one I was drawn to because I have heard it so many times before. The quote comes from John 8:12 and reads "I am the Light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." The quote is pulled from the story of the adulteress who is presented before Jesus. When the men who brought her ask if she should not be stoned for her crimes as stated by the Law of Moses, Jesus replies with saying that the man without sin shall cast the first stone. Needless to say, no stone was cast. I've always loved this story and, in turn, love the metaphor that is in use. Jesus makes comparison to himself as light repeatedly, because light is a sign of ultimate goodness. He is not literally a light, but he possesses the same qualities that light has come to represent.
The last of these three examples holds a special place in my heart, primarily because of the story it is drawn from. Jesus's point was so simply and so powerfully made. We so often condemn the actions of others without realizing that we make just as many mistakes and are no better then the accused at times. It is often despairing to consider this possibility, however, Jesus' talk of himself as light provides a shimmering glimmer of optimism. The image of Jesus being a light to follow, a goal to attain, gives the readers a hope of salvation.
Danielle,
ReplyDeleteI like your selection of metaphors and similes. The examples were well picked and each one has a lot of meaning behind it. I don't know why but when I start reading something you write I get hooked onto it because your writing is so full. There is so many details packed into paragraphs, which I really really like. But anyways your third example is the one I liked the most because Jesus stood up for that woman and turned down an entire crowd of people. That story always strikes me too. Nice job!