These diachronic stages are also identifiable in the rejection of Saul passages. The response of this final redactor (DtrN) consists of a call to renewed obedience to the book of the law expressive of the YHWH-Israel bond. Four stages are identified, ranging from 1) older, positive, Saul stories, to 2) prophetic tradition, to 3) a Deuteronomistic History expressive of preexilic hope informed by Davidic promise (Josianic), to 4) exilic, deuteronomistic thought, grappling with the crisis of exile while attempting to understand and articulate a response. The value of a careful synchronic reading is complemented by a diachronic reading contributing to an understanding of the text’s development and final shaping (Chapter Three). Following an introduction describing context, model, and method (Chapter One), this work focuses on the positive contribution-and shortcomings-of some synchronic approaches, identifying the need for an appropriate biblical poetics (Chapter Two). In the end, these commands and words share the same referent-the book of the law-the priority of the final editors (DtrN). Both accounts appeal for obedience to the commands and words of YHWH (13:13-14 15:1). The Saul rejection accounts were placed at strategic points late in the development of the text of 1 Samuel. The accounts became part of a wider deuteronomistic attempt to persuade an exilic audience of the importance of obedience centered on the YHWH-Israel bond articulated in Deuteronomic law. The Saul rejection accounts became, more broadly, about the election and seeming rejection of Israel because of infidelity to the Horeb covenant. The figure of Saul became the focus of exilic reflection on election, rejection, obedience, and repentance.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |