What is a common literary feature found in the Book of Jonah?

The Book of Jonah is characterized by a parabolic narrative structure, which is evident in how the story unfolds. This literary feature involves the use of a narrative that conveys deeper moral or theological messages through the actions and events experienced by its characters.

In Jonah, the prophet's reluctance to deliver God's message to Nineveh serves as a critique of both the prophet and the wider religious community's attitudes towards God's mercy and grace. The events—such as Jonah's attempt to flee from God, his time in the belly of the great fish, and the eventual repentance of Nineveh—work together to illustrate key themes about obedience, divine compassion, and the universality of God's concern for all people.

This type of narrative invites readers to reflect on its moral dimensions, encouraging them to contemplate their own responses to God's call, making it a powerful example of a parabolic story. While elements of poetry, allegory, and historical accuracy may appear in the text, the overarching structure and purpose align closely with the characteristics of parabolic narratives.