Conversational networks: prophets and kings in the Old Testament.

This article examines direct speech in the Old Testament by visualizing verbal interactions between key figures—such as kings, prophets, and God—using conversational networks, which are graphs representing speakers and hearers connected by directed edges indicating speech frequency. Through two case studies, the research demonstrates that these networks can identify distinct speech genres (including prophetic call, prayer, vision report, judgment speech, and historical narrative) in the Minor Prophets and reveal significant relational patterns and divine communication in the historical books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles. The study also highlights differences in content and emphasis between Samuel-Kings and Chronicles, reflecting theological and editorial perspectives. The findings suggest that conversational networks offer a valuable quantitative and visual tool for discourse analysis in biblical studies.