Joshua - Chapter 8

1. Why, in the light of preceding events, would Chapter 8 begin with the reassuring statement to Joshua?

I think it is exactly because of the preceding events that Joshua needed reassurance. After a defeat in battle and having to put to death one of his own men, Joshua’s 9and all the people’s) moral was probably low. Having God tell you “Have no fear” is a good way to being up their spirits. And having God serve as your General and give you detailed battle plans puts a fait bit of confidence into your men.

2. What is the response of Joshua -- and is it oral or "action"?

The response was for Joshua to do exactly as God commanded. He communicated the battle plan to the nation, and made preparations to carry them out.

3. What will explain the policy of total devastation -- including men, women, children?

???

4. How does verse 26 echo an experience in the Five Books involving Moses?

Joshua stretching out his spear during the battle echoes the actions of Moses when he Kept is staff raised during the battle with Amalek,

5. Verse 28 makes reference to "to this very day." Which is the "very day"?

The verse said the mound where they buried the king of Ai remains until “this very day”. Literally, “this day” would refer to the time of the authourship of the book of Joshua. But it could be taken to mean whatever day you are reading the chapter – in orther words- is there for all time.

6. Why, precisely at this juncture, does Joshua then build an altar and, as well, erect stones which set forth the "Torat Mosheh"? And what was the Torah which Mosheh (according to this verse) actually wrote "in the presence of the Israelites"?

Sacrifices to God were a sign of thanks, so after God performs a great miracle – like delivering Ai into their hands – it would be common practice to build an alter and offer sacrifices. There are many opinions on what “Torat Mosheh” refers to. Some say the Ten Commandments, others say the Book of Deuteronomy, others say the entire 5 books. Rabbi Yossh ben Yose said in the name of Rabbi Eleazar ben Simeon: “They only wrote on the stones what the nations of the world would want to see.”

7. Verse 34 makes reference to "Sefer HaTorah." To what does this refer?

Again may differing opinions here – it could mean the entire 5 books, some say he listed all the mitzvot, others say it refers specifically to Deuteronomy chapter 28.

8. How does the term "K?hal Yisrael? (verse 3 5) dfffer (or parallel) Am Yisrael?

I take Am Yisrael to mean the single nation, while K’hal Yisrael are the people who make up the nation.

Favourite Quote : "Do not fear and do not loose resolve" - Verse 1