Cursing the Enemy: The Chiastic Composition of Deuteronomy 30,1-10 and the State of Israel

Abstract

ABSTRACT This research paper demonstrates exegetically that God’s prophesied gathering of the Israelites in Deuteronomy 30,1-10 can happen only after repentance and a return to devoted service of God, which is made possible by a divine or spiritual regenerative work on the minds and moods of Israel. This is supported by evidence that this pericopé was an intentional chiasm giving focus to this theme. Current relevance theologically is argued on the basis of how this understanding of Deuteronomy 30,1-10 can be applied to renewed and ongoing debate over the literal versus spiritual future fulfillment of, especially the timing of, Israel’s restoration as a “nation.” In particular this has implications for the current discussions over so-called Replacement Theology or Supercessionism, wherein some have tended to base evaluations on political correctness over exegesis. The question here clarified is what role this passage plays in regard to the nature of renewed Israel.