A rhetorical analysis of Philippians 1:1-11
Loading...
Date
2004
Authors
Snyman, A. H.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State
Abstract
English: The aim of this article is to analyse Philippians 1:1-11 from a rhetorical perspective
that differs from the typical approach of researchers, who tend to force ancient rhetorical
categories on a letter. The analysis is done in terms of what is called a “grounded
theoretical approach”. This approach is briefly summarised, followed by a systematic
analysis of Paul’s basic rhetorical strategy, as well as of all the supportive rhetorical
techniques, in these eleven verses. It will be argued that these verses are not to be
regarded as the exordium of the letter, preparing the audience for the “real” arguments
later on in the probatio (2:1-3:21). They are part of Paul’s rhetorical strategy in the
letter, constructed from the text itself and aimed at persuading his fellow-Christians
to persevere in proclaiming and living the gospel that they received at the founding
of the church in Philippi. The conclusion is that such a text-centred approach (where
the focus shifts from the formal to the functional) provides a better understanding of
Paul’s rhetorical strategy in Philippians 1:1-11 than a typical rhetorical analysis, according
to which this section forms part of the exordium of the letter.
Description
Keywords
Rhetorical criticism, Functional approach, Phil. 1:1-11, Pauline literature
Citation
Snyman, A. H. (2004). A rhetorical analysis of Philippians 1:1-11. Acta Theologica, 24(2), 81-104.