What do we mean by the “Deuteronomistic history”?

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Since the biblical text is a composite document that contains portions of oral tradition, legal pronouncements, historical chronicles, poetry, prophecy, and wisdom literature, it is a standard conclusion among scholars that several groups of editors at one time or another had a hand in creating what eventually became the canonical text of the Bible. 

One group collectively known as the “Deuteronomistic Historian” has been identified as responsible for much of the material contained in the books from Deuteronomy through 2 Kings. 

This so-called Deuteronomistic history contains distinctive and identifiably consistent vocabulary, syntax, themes, stylistic formulas, and a well-defined theological perspective on the events in Israelite history.

It is also clear from its emphasis on Jerusalem as the place where “God’s name dwells”—and its generally positive presentation of the Davidic dynasty of rulers—that the Deuteronomistic Historian is a scribal voice from the Southern Kingdom of Judah. 

Almost none of the kings of the Northern Kingdom of Israel are identified as “good” kings: they continue to promote the “sin of Jeroboam” instead of obedience to the covenant with Yahweh (see question 51); they do not recognize Jerusalem as the cultic center for all Israelites, and they repeatedly engage in foreign wars and foreign alliances that contribute to the destruction of the nation and its people. 

Since the Deuteronomistic Historian is aware of the full range of events in Israel’s history from the time of Joshua through the end of the monarchy, this material has been dated to the early sixth century BCE or during the exile later in that century. Its aim appears not only to provide a chronicle of events, but also to make it clear to the exilic audience that their current condition—stripped of their land, their king, and their Temple—is the direct result of their violation of the covenant and represents a just response by God. 

But hope also exists in this assessment of the past since it serves to guide future actions and assures the people that if they return to proper obedience to God’s word and law, they can expect a restoration of their fortunes and a return to their homeland.


Author: Matthews, V. H. 

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