Tag Archives: Joshua 9:1

The Syntactic and Rhetorical Structure of Geographic Listings in Joshua 9:1

Introduction to Joshua 9:1 Joshua 9:1 introduces a significant narrative development, where multiple kings from different regions react to Israel’s conquests. This verse employs a structured geographic listing, a common rhetorical and syntactic device in Biblical Hebrew used to emphasize completeness and unity among Israel’s adversaries. The verse consists of: A temporal clause marking a reaction to Israel’s victories (וַיְהִ֣י כִשְׁמֹ֣עַ, “And it happened when they heard”). A structured geographic listing, moving from broad regional descriptions to specific ethnic groups. A catalog of nations, reinforcing the widespread opposition to Israel.… Learn Hebrew
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