Epanodos; or, Inversion
Epanodos; or, Inversion
The Repetition of the same Words in an inverse Order (but same Sense)
E-pan-o-dos is from (epi), upon, (ana), back, and (hodos), a way, and means a way back again, or more simply a return.
After two, three, or more words have been mentioned, they are repeated, not in the same order again, but backward.
The Latins called it REGRESSIO, i.e., regression, and INVERSIO, i.e., inversion.
When propositions are inverted and thus contrasted, and not merely the words, the figure is called ANTIMETABOLE (see the next figure).
When only the subject matter is thus related it is called CHIASMUS (q.v. [Note: Which see.] ), though this may also be called an Epanodos. This we have given under Correspondence. When words or phrases are repeated in this inverse order it is called SYNANTESIS, a meeting together.
Gen 10:1-31.-
a1-. Shem,
b-1-. Ham,
c-1. and Japheth.
c2-5. The sons of Japheth.
b6-20. The sons of Ham.
a21-31. The sons of Shem.
Exo 9:31.-
aAnd the flax
band the barley was smitten,
bfor the barley was in the ear,
aand the flax was bolled.
Isa 6:10.-
aMake the heart of this people fat,
band make their ears heavy,
c and shut their eyes;
clest they see with their eyes,
band hear with their ears,
aand understand with their heart.
Rom 2:14.-Which have not the law ( , mee nomon) these having not the law ( , nomon mee). The figure, which does not appear in the English, shows us that in the former sentence we are to place the emphasis on the word not, and in the latter on the word law.
N.B.-The words by nature must be read with who have not the law, and not with the verb do. Gentiles by nature are not under the Law of Moses, yet they do many things unconsciously in accordance with it; and so far, they endorse it, and condemn themselves. The keeping of this law can no more save them than the law of Moses can save the Jews. All are under sin (3:9), the Gentile (chap. 1), the Jew (chap. 2), and all alike guilty before God (3:19).
2Co 1:3.-
aBlessed be God,
beven the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
bthe Father of mercies,
aand the God of all comfort.
3Jn 1:11.-
aFollow not that which is evil,
bbut that which is good.
bHe that doeth good is of God;
aBut he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
For further illustration see under Correspondence.
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