Examples of Alliteration in Edwards Sermon

Introduction

Jonathan Edwards' famous sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" is a powerful piece of literature that has stood the test of time. One of the striking features of this sermon is its use of alliteration, a literary device that involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words. In this essay, we will explore the examples of alliteration in Edwards' sermon and discuss their significance in conveying his message to the audience.

Examples of Alliteration in Edwards' Sermon

The use of alliteration in "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" serves to enhance the rhetorical impact of the sermon by creating a sense of rhythm and emphasis. It also helps to grab the attention of the audience and make the sermon more memorable. By analyzing the alliteration in the sermon, we can gain a deeper understanding of Edwards' persuasive techniques and the themes he is trying to convey. Additionally, the strategic placement of alliteration often underscores the emotional intensity of the message, drawing listeners into a deeper contemplation of their spiritual state.

One of the most striking examples of alliteration in the sermon is found in the following passage: "The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked." Here, the repeated "h" sound in "holds," "hell," "holds," "abhors," and "horribly" creates a sense of urgency and dread, emphasizing the severity of the consequences of sin. This alliteration serves to evoke a visceral reaction in the audience, painting a vivid and terrifying image of the wrath of God (Edwards, 1741).

In addition to creating a sense of urgency, alliteration in the sermon also serves to emphasize key themes and ideas. For example, in the passage "The bow of God's wrath is bent, and the arrow made ready on the string, and justice bends the arrow at your heart, and strains the bow, and it is nothing but the mere pleasure of God, and that of an angry God, without any promise or obligation at all, that keeps the arrow one moment from being made drunk with your blood," the repeated "b" sound in "bow," "bent," "bends," "bow," "blood," and "being" underscores the relentless and imminent nature of God's judgment. This alliteration reinforces the idea of the inevitability of divine retribution, driving home the severity of the consequences of sin (Edwards, 1741). The relentless nature of this language mirrors the inescapable nature of divine justice that Edwards seeks to impress upon his listeners.

Furthermore, the alliteration in the sermon also serves to create a sense of cohesion and coherence, linking together different ideas and images. For example, in the passage "The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked," the repeated "h" sound in "holds," "hell," "holds," "abhors," and "horribly" creates a sense of unity and continuity, tying together the various elements of the sermon and reinforcing the central message of divine judgment. This stylistic choice not only unifies the sermon structurally but also thematically, as each repeated sound amplifies the sermon’s central warning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of alliteration in Jonathan Edwards' sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" serves to enhance the rhetorical impact of the sermon by creating a sense of urgency, emphasizing key themes and ideas, and creating a sense of cohesion and coherence. By analyzing the examples of alliteration in the sermon, we can gain a deeper understanding of Edwards' persuasive techniques and the themes he is trying to convey. Ultimately, the alliteration in the sermon serves to underscore the severity of the consequences of sin and to drive home the urgency of repentance. As we reflect on the enduring power of this sermon, we can appreciate the skillful use of alliteration as a means of engaging the audience and conveying a powerful message that continues to resonate with readers to this day. Such literary craftsmanship ensures that Edwards' words remain impactful across generations, inviting continuous reflection on the human condition and divine justice.

References

• Edwards, J. (1741). Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.