The concept of cherem, or being devoted to destruction, is explored in the context of God's sovereignty, holiness, and justice. This idea is seen in the story of Achan in Joshua chapter 7, where God's people were unable to stand before their enemies due to their disobedience. The Amorites, a wicked and barbaric people, were also devoted to destruction, and God's justice was meted out against them due to their implacable resistance to God's work and their abominable wickedness. [... more]