The Definition
Chiasmus is a form of inverted parallelism. It presents a series of words or ideas followed by a second presentation of similar words or ideas, but in reverse order. This creates a balanced, symmetrical structure where the second half of the passage mirrors the first half.
The Blueprint
In a simple chiasm, the structure follows an A-B-B-A pattern. More complex versions can extend this pattern further, such as A-B-C-C-B-A or even longer.
A First idea
B Second idea
B' Second idea repeated (or contrasted)
A' First idea repeated (or contrasted)
Scriptural Examples
Here are three clear examples of chiasmus found in the Book of Mormon:
1. Alma 34:10 – The Infinite Sacrifice
This passage uses a simple A-B-C // C-B-A structure to center the reader's attention on the nature of the Atonement.
A there should be a great and last sacrifice;
B yea, not a sacrifice of man,
C neither of beast,
C neither of any manner of fowl;
B for it shall not be a human sacrifice;
A but it must be an infinite and eternal sacrifice.
2. Mosiah 3:18–19 – The Natural Man
This complex chiasm focuses entirely on Jesus Christ and His atoning blood. Note how the "natural man" is framed by the call to become like a child and the power of the Atonement.
A they humble themselves
B and become as little children,
C and believe that salvation was, and is, and is to come, in and through the atoning blood of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent.
D For the natural man
E is an enemy to God,
F and has been from the fall of Adam,
F and will be, forever and ever,
E unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit,
D and putteth off the natural man
C and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord,
B and becometh as a child,
A submissive, meek, humble . . .
3. Mosiah 2:5–6 – Family and the Temple
This narrative chiasm teaches a structural truth about families centering themselves around the temple.
A And it came to pass that when they came up to the temple,
B they pitched their tents round about,
C every man according to his family,
D consisting of his wife, and his sons, and his daughters,
D and their sons, and their daughters, from the eldest down to the youngest,
C every family being separate one from another.
B And they pitched their tents
A round about the temple.
The Significance (The 'Why')
Why did ancient prophets use this complex structure?
- Emphasis: The repetition of key points or themes emphasizes the "crux" or central core of a prophetic message.
- Memorization: The balanced, symmetrical structure encourages learning and makes the text easier to memorize.
- Aesthetics: Chiasmus makes important texts aesthetically pleasing to the reader.
- Impact: The combination of a powerful message with a creative presentation produces a "powerful impression on the reader".
Study Question
Select a chapter in the Book of Mormon you are currently studying. As you read, look for repeated words or ideas. If you find a chiasm (even a simple A-B-B-A), ask yourself: What idea is located at the center (or turning point) of the structure, and why might the author want to focus my attention specifically on that concept?