Fragmentation of Reader Focus in the Preamble to Battle in Judges 6.1-7.14

Abstract

This article identifies a split in narratorial focus after 6.6 in the passage of Judg. 6.1-7.14. Two separate strands portray events in two separate locations. The reader's attention oscillates between the two warring factions of Israel and Midian (with their allies). The two strands recombine in a night-time reconnaissance mission (7.13-15) which precedes the final battle. The author's arrangement, along with the distant and sparse coverage of Midian's activity, affords a period of anxiety in which a reader might join.