Pytanie o funkcję retoryczną opowiadań o powołaniu prorockim

Abstract

The paper discusses the question about the rhetorical function of the stories on prophetic vocation. Assuming their apologetic character, an opinion that dominates in the exegesis based on the historical-critical method, the quest after further goals takes it into account that the text is a testimony to the event of vocation. Applying the narrative method has allowed us to distinguish three different communicative situations written in the description of calling. The last of them is the process of reading in which the ideal prophet meets his ideal listener. Taking this fact into account in the rhetorical analysis has allowed us to grasp some new persuasive aspects of the vocational narration. Its goal is not reduced to the apology of the authority of the prophet or his word. Sharing his experience of calling, the prophet introduces his listeners in a direct contact with the word of God, thus enabling their decision whether to listen or not to listen to his words. In result, the event making the prophecy is re-created and updated in the time and space of the reader.