Jonathon Edwards Metaphors
Metaphors: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God
“Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” by Jonathon Edwards is an important piece of early American literature. The purpose of this sermon, written in 1741, was to persuade congregations to devote themselves fully to Puritan beliefs. It is characterized by the author’s use of emotional language, strong imagery and intense metaphors to paint a horrifying picture of eternal damnation for unsaved individuals. Through these techniques, Edwards effectively creates a vivid picture for the audience, depicting Hell and God’s wrath if they do not repent. In the writing, three strong metaphors in particular exemplify the sharp tone of the author.
The first example of a strong metaphor used to great effect …show more content…
It is significant because it relates to the overall theme of this lecture: that no matter the situation, no man wants to suffer the wrath of God. The goal is to make the audience feel God’s vast water rising higher and higher around them. As the water continues to flow, it becomes stronger until it overcomes the lives of the unsaved. It is effective visual imagery. The audience would see themselves treading water in a large ocean struggling to stay afloat. Edwards’ intention is to scare the listener in order for them to fear God and follow the beliefs of the Puritan society. Finally, the following metaphor is used by Edwards to describe the urgency of his message: “The bow of God’s wrath is bent and the arrow made ready on the string, and justice bends the arrow at your heart…”
This passage reflects the purpose of the sermon, specifically, that at an unexpected moment God will execute justice against mankind. It is, in essence, Edwards’ warning and a call to action for his congregation. God’s “bow” is pulled tight and the “arrow” is the wrath that will be delivered. The metaphor means that God is ready and waiting to release that arrow which, effectively noted, is aimed at the listener’s heart. The audience is reminded of the fragility of their existence and how swiftly the may meet their maker. The purpose of this line is to make the audience react quickly to repent and gain God’s forgiveness before
“Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” by Jonathon Edwards is an important piece of early American literature. The purpose of this sermon, written in 1741, was to persuade congregations to devote themselves fully to Puritan beliefs. It is characterized by the author’s use of emotional language, strong imagery and intense metaphors to paint a horrifying picture of eternal damnation for unsaved individuals. Through these techniques, Edwards effectively creates a vivid picture for the audience, depicting Hell and God’s wrath if they do not repent. In the writing, three strong metaphors in particular exemplify the sharp tone of the author.
The first example of a strong metaphor used to great effect …show more content…
It is significant because it relates to the overall theme of this lecture: that no matter the situation, no man wants to suffer the wrath of God. The goal is to make the audience feel God’s vast water rising higher and higher around them. As the water continues to flow, it becomes stronger until it overcomes the lives of the unsaved. It is effective visual imagery. The audience would see themselves treading water in a large ocean struggling to stay afloat. Edwards’ intention is to scare the listener in order for them to fear God and follow the beliefs of the Puritan society. Finally, the following metaphor is used by Edwards to describe the urgency of his message: “The bow of God’s wrath is bent and the arrow made ready on the string, and justice bends the arrow at your heart…”
This passage reflects the purpose of the sermon, specifically, that at an unexpected moment God will execute justice against mankind. It is, in essence, Edwards’ warning and a call to action for his congregation. God’s “bow” is pulled tight and the “arrow” is the wrath that will be delivered. The metaphor means that God is ready and waiting to release that arrow which, effectively noted, is aimed at the listener’s heart. The audience is reminded of the fragility of their existence and how swiftly the may meet their maker. The purpose of this line is to make the audience react quickly to repent and gain God’s forgiveness before