The concept of "The Ban on Devoted Things" is rooted in the Hebrew term "herem," which refers to objects or people that are devoted to destruction or set apart for God, often in the context of warfare and judgment. This practice is prominently featured in the Old Testament, particularly in the conquest narratives of the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land.

Biblical Foundation

The principle of the ban is first introduced in the context of the conquest of Canaan. In Deuteronomy 7:2, the Israelites are commanded, "And when the LORD your God has delivered them over to you and you have defeated them, then you must devote them to complete destruction. Make no treaty with them and show them no mercy." This command underscores the totality of the destruction required, emphasizing the need for purity and separation from pagan influences.

The Ban in Practice

One of the most notable instances of the ban is found in the account of Jericho's fall. In Joshua 6:17-19, the city and all within it are declared "devoted to the LORD for destruction." The Israelites are instructed, "But keep away from the devoted things, so that you will not bring about your own destruction by taking any of them. Otherwise, you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble on it."

The violation of this command is dramatically illustrated in the account of Achan, who took some of the devoted items from Jericho. As a result, Israel faced defeat at Ai, and Achan's sin was revealed. Joshua 7:11-12 records God's words: "Israel has sinned; they have violated My covenant that I commanded them. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, lied, and put them with their own possessions. This is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies." Achan's punishment was severe, serving as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of the ban.

Theological Significance

The ban on devoted things serves several theological purposes. It underscores the holiness of God and the necessity for His people to be distinct from the surrounding nations. The complete destruction of the Canaanite cities was a divine judgment against their idolatry and wickedness, as well as a means to prevent Israel from being led astray by pagan practices.

Furthermore, the ban highlights the concept of divine ownership. Everything devoted to destruction was considered God's property, and taking from it was tantamount to robbing God. This principle is echoed in Leviticus 27:28, which states, "But nothing that a man owns and devotes to the LORD—whether a man, an animal, or his inherited land—can be sold or redeemed; everything so devoted is most holy to the LORD."

Moral and Ethical Implications

The ban raises complex moral and ethical questions, particularly regarding the destruction of entire populations. From a conservative Christian perspective, these actions are understood within the context of divine justice and the unique covenant relationship between God and Israel. The ban was not a blanket endorsement of violence but a specific command for a particular time and purpose, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for purity among God's people.

New Testament Reflections

While the New Testament does not explicitly mention the ban, the underlying principles of holiness, separation from sin, and total devotion to God continue to resonate. Believers are called to be set apart, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16: "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" The call to spiritual purity and the rejection of idolatry remain central to the Christian life, reflecting the enduring relevance of the principles behind the ban on devoted things.