volume 3, issue 1, 2011, pages 48-71

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64438/sbsHSQZ3700
Published online: 2011-06-01
Published in print: 2011-06-30

Abstract: The paper deals with the Promised Land theme as it is presented in the Book of Exodus. Its aim is to show the way of developing of the Promised Land motif in this biblical work with a help of analysis of fragments which contain references to the Promised Land. This step precedes information about the position of the occurrences in the structure of the Book of Exodus (based on the outline proposed by J.L.Ska) and a short presentation of their context. Statements are analyzed in three groups which have the idea of memory in common. The first group consists of texts speaking of God’s memory. They present the Promised Land as an object of God’s promises and His covenant with the patriarchs of Israel. As such it stands behind the Exodus event and becomes the aim of it as well. The second group of texts speaks of liturgical memory of Israel, in which the Promised Land is shown as a place where Israel has to celebrate the memory of Exodus. This practice is a way to reviving of the faith in YHWH and developing of correct attitude to the gift of the Promised Land. In the last group of texts that focus on memory understood as respect for the laws of God, the Promised Land is seen as an area of implementation of service of God, which ensures His blessing for Israelites on it.