From Woodchoppers to Kings: How the Torah's Radical Covenant Redefined Ancient Politics

In this episode we're diving into the radical inclusivity of the covenant in Parashat Nitzavim. From princes to woodchoppers, everyone is called to stand before God. But there's more to this than meets the eye.

We explore how the rabbis upped the ante, suggesting these "woodchoppers and water carriers" might have been outsiders or even forbidden Canaanites. This covenant wasn't just inclusive - it was pushing boundaries.

Key Takeaways

• Radical Inclusion: The covenant encompasses everyone, from leaders to strangers, even those not yet born. It's a deliberate expansion of who "belongs."
• Divine Democracy: By making God the sole sovereign, the covenant undermines human hierarchies. It's a blueprint for egalitarian society.
• Movement Dynamics: The text reveals an evolving community, with various motivations for joining. It challenges our notions of purity and belonging.

Timestamps

[00:00] The first "We the People" — long before Jefferson

[01:20] Who were the wood choppers and water carriers?

[03:10] Covenant as a new movement before entering the land

[05:30] Outsiders joining Israel — sincere converts or cunning opportunists?

[07:45] Commentaries on inclusion, agency, and social hierarchy

[10:00] The mixed multitude and converts of convenience

[12:45] Are menial roles punishment or sacred service?

[14:20] Radical responsibility — why every member matters

[20:10] Joshua and the Gibeonites: deception, covenant, and consequences

[28:15] Covenant as political revolution — God as king, no man as master

Links & Learnings

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Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/