The phrase "three and four" is a literary device found in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, that signifies completeness or an intensification of meaning. This expression is often used in a poetic or proverbial context to emphasize the fullness or the seriousness of a matter. It is a form of parallelism, a common feature in Hebrew poetry, where numbers are used to convey a deeper significance.

Biblical Usage

1. Amos 1:3-2:6: The most notable use of "three and four" is found in the Book of Amos, where the prophet Amos delivers a series of judgments against various nations. The phrase is repeated as a formulaic introduction to each oracle: "For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not revoke its punishment..." (Amos 1:3). This pattern continues for Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, Moab, Judah, and Israel. The use of "three and four" here underscores the completeness of the nations' sins and the certainty of divine judgment. It suggests that the sins have reached their full measure, warranting God's response.

2. Proverbs 30:15-31: In Proverbs, the numerical sayings of Agur also employ this pattern. For example, "There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, 'Enough!'" (Proverbs 30:15). This structure is used to list things that are insatiable, mysterious, or awe-inspiring, such as the grave, the barren womb, the earth's thirst for water, and fire. The use of "three and four" here serves to highlight the completeness and the enigmatic nature of these observations.

Theological Significance

The use of "three and four" in Scripture is not merely a stylistic choice but carries theological weight. It reflects the biblical theme of God's patience and justice. The repetition of transgressions beyond the number three suggests a threshold has been crossed, indicating that God's forbearance has limits. This is particularly evident in the prophetic literature, where the phrase underscores the inevitability of divine judgment after persistent sin.

In wisdom literature, the pattern invites reflection on the mysteries of creation and human experience. It encourages the reader to ponder the deeper truths of life and the world, recognizing that some aspects of existence are beyond human comprehension and control.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern culture, numbers often held symbolic meanings. The number three is frequently associated with completeness or perfection, while four can represent universality or totality. The combination of these numbers in the phrase "three and four" thus amplifies the sense of fullness or culmination.

The rhetorical device of using numbers in this way would have resonated with the original audience, who were familiar with such expressions in their oral and literary traditions. It served as a powerful tool for conveying messages with authority and emphasis.

Conclusion

The phrase "three and four" in the Bible is a rich literary and theological device that communicates the fullness of sin, the certainty of judgment, and the mysteries of life. Its use in prophetic and wisdom literature invites readers to consider the limits of divine patience and the profound truths of God's creation.