Quesions on the Conquest Narrative
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| I. |
The Alter at Mount Ebal (near Shechem, Joshua 8:30—35) |
| Joshua 8:32 says that Joshua “wrote on the stones
there a copy of the Torah of Moses.” What might this “Torah of Moses” have
been? Read Joshua 8:30—35 and discuss the implications of this text for understanding
the term “Torah of Moses.” (See figure 6.4 in Bandstra’s book for a map showing the relevant area.) |
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| II. |
The Gibeonites (Joshua 9:1—10:15) |
| Who were the Gibeonites, and what is their role in
the book of Joshua? What does their survival say about the Hebrew practice
of Holy War? What does Joshua’s defense of them indicate about the value placed on living up to one’s promises? (See figure 6.4 in Bandstra’s book for a map showing the relevant area.) |
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| III. |
Hazor and the “Finality” of the Conquest |
| Read Joshua 6:21. In light of this verse and the story of Achan’s sin in Joshua 7, discuss the issue of Holy War.
Should we take such stories literally? If so, what purpose did Holy War serve?
Can such extreme action every really be justified? Relate your answer to this last question to the events of September 11, 2001. |
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