Sinai and Royal Covenants: Readings of Deuteronomy, Judges, and Other Books of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) Anonymous College

Within the Hebrew Bible covenant is vital in order to portray the communication and connection God has with his people. Thus, the Sinai Covenant, rise of kingship within Israel, and Royal Covenant all exude incredible importance within the framework of the Hebrew Bible that when compared highlight the mutual exclusivity of the two covenants. The Sinai Covenant as presented within the book of Deuteronomy is the speech of Moses to the Israelites reiterating the covenant that was outlined at Mount Horeb. Beginning in Deuteronomy 5 and continuing through 28.6 the Sinai Covenant outlines incredibly specific laws in which the Israelites are to follow in preparation of entering the Promised Land. It is important to note that within this section lies the portion of the Sinai Covenant regarding royal authority (17.14-20). Essentially, the reiteration of the Sinai Covenant derives from covenantal structure in order to reject myth and cult, as well as revise and reform the laws within Exodus.

The emergence of kingship within Israel began long before Saul would be anointed the first king. Initial mention of kingship featured minimal success, for instance after Gideon defeated the Midianites, “… the Israelites said to Gideon, ‘Rule over us…...