These examples show how Optatio / Wish or Longing functions in biblical language, rhetoric, poetry, prophecy, narrative, or theological imagery.
Would that all the LORD’s people were prophets
Moses expresses a holy wish for widespread prophetic endowment.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion
The psalm voices longing for God’s deliverance.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
Oh that my ways may be steadfast
The psalmist expresses desire for obedience.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
Oh that my head were waters
Jeremiah expresses grief through a wish for abundant tears.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
Would that you had known
Jesus’ lament expresses sorrow over Jerusalem’s missed peace.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
my heart’s desire and prayer
Paul states his longing and prayer for Israel’s salvation.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
it is my prayer that your love may abound
Paul expresses prayerful desire for the church’s growth.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
I pray that all may go well with you
John expresses a benevolent wish for well-being.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves
Paul’s severe wish functions as sharp polemical rhetoric against false teachers.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
Would that you did reign
Paul uses an ironic wish to rebuke Corinthian triumphalism.
Source: Draft-normalized biblical example — Wave 15 vivid description, appeal, and dramatic speech forms
Review status: draft-normalized | Verify against original-language wording, source taxonomy, and final site Bible text stream before publication.
