Abstract:
The presence and literary function of certain polarities in this
particular hymn are investigated. It concerns polarities formed by
the contrast between what was visible during the trial and
crucifixion of Christ and what was believed by the Christian
community who created and used these hymns to be the truth. It is
found that Ephrem expressed the polarities in the form of ironic
paradoxes. These paradoxes were supposed to strengthen the unity
of the Christian community by focusing on the increase in honour
of Christ during what seemed to be a process of shaming him.
