The Covenant Renewal Ceremony at Shechem (Josh. 24:2–27) Compared with Other Ancient Treaties
| Element | Function | Verses |
|---|---|---|
| preamble | introduces the suzerain (i.e., the sovereign) | v. 2 |
| historical prologue | recounts the suzerain’s past gracious dealings with the vassal (i.e., the subordinate) | vv. 2–13 |
| stipulations | outlines the vassal’s consequent responsibilities in respect to the suzerain | vv. 14–24 |
| written record | preserves the covenant agreement | v. 26 |
| witnesses | named | vv. 26–27; see v. 22 |
| blessings and curses | considered | implicit throughout, esp. in v. 20 |