חרם (ḥērem) as Israelite Identity Formation: Canaanite Destruction and the Stranger (גר, gēr)

This study examines the חרם (ḥērem) texts in Deuteronomy and Joshua, focusing on their function in Israelite collective identity construction and their relation to texts concerning the גר (gēr). Studies have argued that these texts operate metaphorically in order to differentiate the Israelite group (e.g., Crouch). This examination of the חרם texts concentrates on redaction and intertextuality within the Deuteronomic tradition, the relationship with texts concerning the גר (stranger), and insider–outsider distinctions. The חרם texts in (Dtr and post-Dtr) Deuteronomy and Joshua reshape Israelite identity around obedience to torah, communicating that Yhwh has given the land to the people grouping that embodies the Deuteronomic vision. Interrelated with these texts is an ethic of incorporating the גר as kindred, which intensifies in the Dtr and post-Dtr redactions in which חרם occurs. Outsiders play a prominent role in this drama, for (1) via the outsider these books redefine Israelite identity around torah, and (2) the inclusion of Canaanites (e.g., Rahab in Joshua 2 and 6) and the enfolding of the גר as kindred forge Israelite identity. The חרם texts function (among other things) to "hold" Israel to the Deuteronomic ethic of enfolding the stranger as kindred.