Deuteronomy 12 and the Law of the Central Sanctuary noch einmal

Abstract

Abstract Critiques the recent attempt by Frederick E. Greenspahn to call into question the interpretation of Deut 12 as instituting cult centralization. The paper first considers Greenspahn’s argument that the definite article in the phrase “the place” at Deut 12:5 (and 12:14) is a generic article. The paper also critiques Greenspahn’s assumption that the theory of cult centralization is narrowly based upon a misreading of the definite article at Deut 12:5 (and 12:14). On the contrary, it is argued here that the theory is more broadly dependent on internal data of the chapter and external connections with other portions of the Pentateuch.