REL 252: Study Guide 16

Harris: ch. 14

Just when we were getting the hang of the Mosaic tradition (tribal autonomy, egalitarion ethos, mobility, charismatic leadership [shofet], etc.) we have to move on to new traditions in ancient Israel. Look for these issues in your reading:

Whatever happened to the Tribal Confederacy & theocracy?

Know the contrasting features of the pro-monarchic (Saul Tradition) and anti-monarchic (Samuel Tradition). What is the meaning of each? Which is more Mosaic & why (cf. Gideon in Judg 8.22–23)? Why ask for a king? What meaning is there in that both are preserved? What aspects of this debate can you see in the US or elsewhere?

NB egalitarian ethos (about kings): 1 Sam 12.6–25 (cf. Deut 17.14–20)

NB portraits of YHWH: e.g., 2 Sam 6.6–11 (David angry at YHWH for killing Uzzah)

NB the unconditional promise of YHWH to David in 2 Sam 7. Cf. conditional character of Mosaic tradition.

2 Sam 11 (Bathsheba story): look for monarchic & theocratic issues