Skillfully Using Illustrations in Sign Language
1. Why are illustrations such powerful teaching tools?
1 The Bible is filled with outstanding illustrations. Think of the many Jesus used while he was here on earth. In fact, it was prophesied that he would use them. (Ps. 78:2) According to one count, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount contained over 50 figures of speech! (Matt. 5:3–7:27) Why did he use them? Illustrations stimulate the mind and stir up emotions. Indeed, they are powerful teaching devices.
2. Why is it important for us to skillfully handle illustrations?
2 It is important that we, like Jesus, become skilled at using illustrations. Many deaf people are drawn to them. (Matt. 7:28) In fact, the visual nature of sign language often complements the use of illustrations. So how can we use them more skillfully?
3. What makes up an illustration, and why is this helpful to know?
3 First, we need to understand what makes up an illustration. There are three basic parts: The concept being compared is the topic, the concept it is compared with is the image, and the comparison between the two is the point of similarity. For example, Psalm 18:2 says: “My God is my rock.” In this scripture, the topic is Jehovah. The image is a rock. The point of similarity is that Jehovah is strong, dependable, and reliable, like a rock. Identifying these elements helps us to isolate key signs that link the topic with the image and make the point of similarity clear. What are some ways this be done effectively in sign language?
4. How can our choice of handshapes contribute to effective illustrations?
4 Similar signs and handshapes. Similar signs and handshapes help make illustrations understandable. Often you will find that using the same sign in both the topic and image is sufficient to tie the illustration together. (Matt. 5:15, 16, 27, 28) Signs that are similar in meaning can also convey the concept. However, at other times the topic and image may share only a certain characteristic. Here is where similar handshapes can help reinforce a point. For example, suppose you wanted to illustrate how fear of man can paralyze a person. (Prov. 29:25) The topic is being ensnared by fear. The image could be a spider web. The illustration might depict a fly being trapped in a web. The point of similarity is that fear of man causes one to feel trapped. The similarity is highlighted by the sign “fear,” which has the same handshape as the sign “web.”
5. How can movement of signs contribute to effective illustrations?
5 Movement of signs. Signs can move in the same direction or manner to make an illustration cohesive. For example, at Hebrews 6:18, 19 the topic is the hope set before us. The image is an anchor for the soul. While watching the scripture, notice the movement of the sign for anchor. By using the same movement when you sign “the hope set before us”, you can demonstrate the point of similarity.
6. How can facial expressions be helpful when using illustrations?
6 Facial expressions. Facial expressions can emphasize the point of comparison. Note, for example, 2 Peter 3:10, where Jehovah’s day is the topic. What is the image? A thief. While watching this scripture, note that a similar facial expression is used to convey an unexpected reaction to Jehovah’s day and to a thief. This stresses the point of similarity. Similar facial expressions can also include certain feelings that can help bring the point of similarity together.
7. What can be said about the above techniques, and what should we keep in mind?
7 Some or all of these methods can be used together. For example, James 2:26 contains some of the techniques explained above to highlight the point of similarity. There are also many other ways to create effective illustrations. However, please keep in mind the need to respect the rules and boundaries of sign language.—2 Cor. 6:3.
8. What should we do if we meet someone who does not grasp illustrations well?
8 A word of caution: At times you may meet someone who does not readily understand illustrations or who views them as literal. It may be better to be more direct in your teaching for a time. The use of contrasts might also be helpful. As the student grows in understanding, his comprehension of illustrations may improve.
9. What is your determination, and why?
9 Yes, illustrations are powerful tools. Continue to use them effectively by applying the above techniques. As you do, those you teach will more readily understand what they are taught and will “retain it.”—Luke 8:15.