Metaphor in the Select Chapters and Verses in the Book of Psalms

Abstract

This study analyzed selected chapters and verses from the Book of Psalms in the New King James Version (NKJV) using a qualitative research approach focused on literary features. The data were drawn from the Old Testament, particularly the Book of Psalms. The findings revealed that various types of metaphors were present, including active, extended, personifying, standard, and synesthetic metaphors. Active metaphors were used to compare two unlike things, such as describing the Lord as a shepherd. Extended metaphors provided multiple related comparisons, as seen in Psalm 18:2, where the Lord is described as a rock, fortress, deliverer, and strength. Personifying metaphors attributed human qualities to non-human elements, while standard metaphors followed the basic structure of comparison, such as describing words as light. Synesthetic metaphors involved sensory imagery, such as comparing God’s word to honey. These figurative expressions contributed to the richness and depth of the Psalms. The study applied Formalism or New Criticism, which focused on analyzing the structural use of metaphors without exploring deeper meanings. This approach highlighted the stylistic features of the text, in contrast to Close Reading Theory, which allows for a more interpretive analysis of literary works.