A (Somewhat) New Way to See and Understand the Diverse and Strategic Use of the Interrogatives in Isa 40:12–31

Abstract

Interpreters predominantly identify the interrogatives in Isa 40:12–31 as Rhetorical Questions (RQs) along with a single Genuine Question. However, upon closer examination the prophet also employs another type of interrogative that operates similarly to RQs, namely Conducive Questions. The prophet creatively and strategically arranges the interrogatives into a parallel pattern. Specifically, the prophet forms two parallel interrogative sequences with each placed in two respective parallel literary sequences (vv. 12–20; 21–26) that together constitute the first section of vv. 12–31. A second literary unit (vv. 27–31) begins with a Genuine Question immediately followed by a final pair of interrogatives. The prophet utilizes the Conducive and Rhetorical Questions to intentionally lead the addressee to verbally confirm, mentally assent to, and, in certain instances, confess with the inferred answers. The prophet’s purpose with these interrogatives aims at synchronizing the theological worldviews of both communicative participants.