The article examines the concept of destruction and dispossession of Canaanites in Joshua, addressing concerns about perceived genocide. Here's a concise summary of the key points:

1. The Hebrew Terms and Meaning

• חָרַם (haram): Setting apart for destruction or complete destruction
• ירשׁ (yarash): Driving out or dispossessing, not necessarily killing
• The focus was more on displacement than total annihilation

2. Key Arguments Against "Genocide"

• Most Canaanites were driven out rather than killed
• Destruction focused mainly on military forces and leadership
• Individual Canaanites like Rahab could be spared by accepting Israel's God
• Language used was often hyperbolic, not literal total destruction

3. Justification for the Actions

• Punishment for extreme Canaanite wickedness (child sacrifice, sexual immorality)
• Protection of Israel's religious purity
• Divine ownership of the land
• Canaanite aggression against Israel

4. Modern Application

• These commands were specific to time, place, and circumstance
• Not meant as a model for modern warfare or conflict
• Christians should oppose evil but not through violence
• New Testament affirms peace while acknowledging God's right to judge

The article concludes that what occurred was not genocide as commonly understood, but rather a combination of displacement and limited destruction, specifically targeted and divinely commanded for that unique historical context.

[Note: All original images and citations have been maintained in their original order and format as requested.]

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