One of the most famous passages of the Old Testament is repeated several times, first appearing in Exodus: “The Lord, the Lord, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in ḥesed (loving-kindness, mercy—see below)” (Exod 34:6; cf. Pss 103:8; 145:8; Joel 2:13; Jonah 4:2). Yet God is sometimes violent. Do you think that this is a contradiction? Why or why not? In your answer, consider the significance of God’s covenant with the Israelites.

Which characteristic (merciful or violent) predominates? Against whom is God violent, and to whom does he show mercy? What is “mercy”? What motivates God? What is God’s goal?

In your answer, engage with Eric Seibert: Disturbing Divine Behavior: Troubling Old Testament Images of God (2009). I’ve attached two important chapters.