ARTICLE
God Fights for Israel. Some Remarks on the Intertextuality of the Deuteronomistic Narrative About the Conquest of the Land and Exodus 1–14
Georg BRAULIK
volume 2, issue 2, 2010, pages 94-111
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64438/sbsIGIB5749
Published online: 2010-12-01
Published in print: 2010-12-30
Abstract: A formula God “fights” (ם חל nifal + ל ) for Israel is in the Hebrew Old Testament particularly evidenced in the books of Deuteronomy and Joshua. In their syntax and in language terms it creates a precisely reflected discourse system. Intertextually it refers to an event at the Red Sea (Ex 14,14.25). Texts Dt 1.30; 3.22; 20.4; Jos 10,14.42 could have been from a literal-historical perspective created already at the time of King Josiah as “deuteronomistic narration about the occupation of the country” (N. Lohfink). Later there were also added Jos 23,14.42. In the context of the overall presentation the formula has been found at key locations. It points out that Israel’s salvation in its history from the Passage of the Red Sea up to taking over the country, as well as in the future times should awaken faith in YHVH, but at the same time, this rescue is to be accepted with confidence.