Poetry Overview - Up to 30% of the bible is written in poetical language
* How do we identify biblical poetry? 

• look for literal changes in the text (indentions, quotes) 
• a real ink and page bible will help you see these changes easier than digital
• books of the bible identified as poetry (Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Solomon [songs]) 
• look for imagery-not rhyming 

* What do we do with it once poetry has been identified? 

• slow down
• read entire sections all together, then go back to analyze 

* What pitfalls should we look to avoid? 

• Avoid legalism-taking the words too literally. God is not just a rock.
• If the poetic language seems in contrast with God's character, looks for literary devices. Poetry can sometimes say the opposite of the point it is making. Think in the lines of hyperbole or sarcasm.
• You may not know everything.
• Don't think that you can't, shouldn't or will never be able to read poetry. The ENTIRE bible is for you at ALL times 

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Scripture References: 

Luke 1: 46-55 Mary's Psalm of praise 
Luke 1: 68-79 Zechariah's poem of prophecy 
Psalm 18: 2 Metaphor-God is a rock... 
Proverbs 3: 9-10 
Psalm 148- Praise the Name of the Lord 

Resources 

Bible Project (Tim Mackie)  https://bibleproject.com/
Article about reading poetry: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/learning-the-lyrics-of-god

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"Rich metaphors of biblical poetry are rooted in biblical narrative. You need the narratives to understand the poetic images and the images reveal a deeper meaning in the narrative." 

Tim Mackie Bible project poetic metaphor video 

https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/