Abstract:
After justifying the method applied, a brief characterisation of the rhetorical model of
Hermogenes is presented. The prominence of harsh or severe styles in Hermogenes invites us to
read Galatians, which is a strongly confrontational letter, through the eyes of Hermogenes. By
applying severe language, Paul endeavours to bring his Galatian convertees to their senses and
prevent them from succumbing to the pressures of the Judaisers. In scrutinising Galatians 1–4,
it became clear that the model of Hermogenes can significantly aid our understanding of
severe language in Galatians at a micro, as well as a macro level. The Hermogenic category
of indignation, for example, provides the key towards solving the riddle of Galatians 4:12–20.
