Reference no: EM133693405
Assignment:
Treaty with the Gibeonites, 9:3-15
1. How does the author's description of the Gibeonite view of their actions ("they acted craftily," verse 4) in light of Joshua's perspective of their actions ("you deceived us," verse 22) move the narrative forward?
Narratives are often written in a way that emphasizes key points along the way. One key point can be found in the Gibeonites' statement about the Lord (YHWH). They freely confess the power and "fame" (literally "name") of Israel's God, having seen Israel's success over the last 40+ years. The point is emphasized with the help of a chiastic structure. (If you don't remember it, look up chiasmus before you answer this question.)
2. Show the chiastic arrangement of verses 4-13 and how it centers the reader's attention on the "fame of the Lord your God."
3. Another way to create emphasis is through the use of repetition. List the key repetitions found in 9:6-15.
One key point of interpretation for biblical narratives is the context. An understanding of the immediate context (the campaigns of Joshua and Israel), as well as the greater context (Israel's history and religion), is crucial as narratives develop within that context. The statement in verse 14 is key for this event.
Israel's response, 9:16-27
4. What does the reader need to know from Israel's history and religion to appreciate the importance of this statement at this time (e.g., Deut. 20:16-18)?
5. This account about the Gibeonites and Israel seems to echo the earlier narrative about Rahab and Israel. What are some points of comparison between Rahab's deliverance and the Gibeonites being spared?
Application
6. What are some principles from this narrative that can be applied to our ministry as believers today?