Foreshadowing the Monarchy’s Dilemma:A Rhetorical Analysis of Judges 19

Abstract

The aim of this research is to analyze Judges 19 from a rhetorical perspective, applying the technique of chiastic-topographical structure. The analysis further contends that the toponyms serve a literary-theological function by foreshadowing the monarchy’s dilemma. They reveal a positive attitude towards Bethlehem of David and a negative one towards Gibeah of Saul. After employing the literary technique of chiastic-topographical structure, five units emerged: A. vv. 1–2 | Mount of Ephraim; B. vv. 3–10a | Bethlehem of Judah; C. vv. 10b–13 | Jabes; B’. vv. 14–28 | Gibeah; and A’. vv. 29–30 | Mount of Ephraim. The study suggests that the narrator intentionally avoids naming characters, instead emphasizing locations like Mount Ephraim, Bethlehem of Judah, and Gibeah, with a central focus on Jabes-Jerusalem. This arrangement serves to highlight a pro-David and anti-Saul monarchy sentiment.