Conquest and Settlement The Covenant Promise Fulfilled

Conquest and Settlement: The Covenant Promise Fulfilled

Introductory Issues • Review: What has been accomplished for the people of Israel? • Deuteronomic History (DH) – a literary issue • Geo-politics – Canaanite cities, the Habiru (‘Apiru) and “Hebrews” – note El Amarna letters • The nature of Israel’s entry into the Land – raids against key leaders and cities with actual settlement much later • The text of Joshua is not in conflict with Judges

A Theological and Ethical Concern • The legitimacy of the conquest in light of the vile polytheism of Canaan • Deuteronomy 7: 1 -6, 16 – to prevent Israel from worshiping other gods • The same drastic action was to be taken against apostate Israel – note exile and destruction • herem – given over to destruction; refers almost exclusively to those who have been in rebellion against the LORD

Schematic outline of Joshua Preparation (1 -5) Conquest (6 -12) Inheritance (13 -22) Renewal of Covenant (23 -24) ACTION BUSINESS APPEAL

Joshua takes over • Meaning of his name • Background as Moses’ assistant – Fighting Amalekites – With Moses on the Mountain – One of the spies • Confirmation after death of Moses – Exhortation to meditate on Torah – Key incidents: crossing Jordan, commemorative stones, commander of the army of the Lord, Passover, circumcision

The Conquest

Strategy of Conquest • • • Central entry point at Jericho Route of attack gains the high ground Divide and conquer Sweep the south Northern victory(ies) - Hazor An important observation: This is not an occupation at this point. Settlement comes later.

Jordan River Valley

Jericho

Jericho – Revetment Wall

Casemate Wall (at Beersheva; remains of this aspect of the Jericho walls are not evident)

Ascent to Bethel and Ai

Ai (which means “ruin”)

Major Campaigns • Jericho – Rahab, herem and “first fruits” • Ai – the sin of Achan; the implications of individual sin for whole community • Covenant renewal at Shechem – altar on Mt. Ebal • Gibeonite deception – treaty ratified with oath • Jerusalem confederation • Southern campaign • Northern campaign - Hazor • “land not taken” – coastal plain and Jezreel Valley

Tribal Allotments and Cities of Refuge • Key tribal allotments • Cities of refuge – three on each side of the Jordan Valley • What happened to the Levites?

Covenant Renewal • Joshua’s farewell speech (chapter 23) • Renewal of the covenant at Shechem – A recital of history – Exhortation to fear the Lord – Affirmation and challenge – Writing and stones as witness against the people