Mormons use this as evidence that the Book of Mormon has ancient origins. In response, someone wrote an article sarcastically arguing that the chiasmus in dr seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham is evidence of the ancient origin of that book as well.
Chiastic structure is more than just repetition. It is a poetic way of showing central themes. It makes the structure part of the communication and that’s why it’s effect is more than just repetition but that of central foundations. From a Mormon (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) perspective it gives deeper meaning to scriptures such as Alma 36 which is in it self an entire chapter in supplication who’s center is Jesus Christ. It has special meaning to those who believe the foundation of grace and source of redemption is Jesus Christ.
Really makes you appreciate the subtlety of arts in literature and popular media of old. It’s unfortunate that in many ways we (Americans at least) are no longer subjected to as much subtlety through laugh tracks and the like. Discovering these gems is really fun.
