Messages from Yahweh to his People Preparing them for Times of Trauma and Suffering

I have been studying the poetic structure of the Psalms and have been amazed at the extra insight and teaching this study has produced so I have wondered if something similar will happen if the other Old Testament scriptures that are set out in a poetic form are subjected to a similar analysis.
This study of Joel is my first attempt at this task.
However, Joel is significantly longer than any of the psalms I have studied and, I suspect, has a different purpose, so that may mean there will be new patterns to discover.
My impression is that Joel is primarily a form of teaching that is set out in a poetic format that addresses the problems the nation faced. Joel gives counsel about how such problems were to be handled and helps his readers to see how they fit into the context of Yahweh’s commitment to his people and his plans to use these events for Yahweh’s glory.
Rather than continue straightaway to read my assessment I suggest you leave this website. Instead, start with your Bible. Use whichever translation you prefer and read Joel in one sitting to get a sense of it as whole. It takes 10 minutes.
Pause to reflect then read it again and this time take notes. I think you’ll have questions such as:
- Why is this mentioned?
- Why does this contradict that?
- Who is speaking?
- Who is being addressed?
- Whose side is Yahweh really on?
Notice the links between different parts, some repetitive while others are in contrast.
This is the approach I have taken and I think you will find that some, at least, of your questions will find answers, as the poetical structure is all part of Joel’s creation.
I will be expanding these pages with a commentary in due course but for now see for yourself what the poetic structure reveals.
If you are so inclined I will love to hear from you about your insight or further ideas.

Link to Joel – Message 1

Written: 22 April 2025

Published: 22 April 2025