המילה המנחה בכתיבת הפרשן: חשיפת אמצעי ספרותי בפרשנות ר 'יוסף חיון על ספר תהלים

The article seeks to contribute to the study of the exegetical method of R. Joseph Hayyun (Lisbon, 15th century; hereafter: RJH) by pointing to a phenomenon in his exegetical writing (on Psalms) that has not been noted so far – his use of "leading words". Initially, the article discusses the phenomenon in his commentary to three representative psalms (3, 6, 51). Later in the article, findings arising from a systematic examination of his commentary to the Songs of Ascents(120-134) are surveyed and analyzed. Between these two parts of the article, the"formula for characterizing the psalm" (FCP) which appears at the beginning of his commentary to each psalm is discussed. The linkage between (some) of the "leading words" and the FCP, and the fact that about half of RJH's "leading words" do not appear in the psalms themselves, show that this is not a random repetition of words but a significant emphasis of the commentator. The "leading words" tighten the connection between the parts of the psalm and embody its contents according to the interpretation of RJH.The article also aims to make an additional contribution to the study of "leading words" by demonstrating their use outside the Bible, in this case – in the writing of a biblical commentator. Finally, it contributes to the understanding of various psalms.