Aram as the enemy friend : The ideological role of Aram in the composition of Genesis - 2 Kings

Sammanfattning: The present study deals with the ideological role of Aram according to their representation in Genesis-2 Kings. This investigation shows that the functions and picture of Aram are more often positive than not. Genesis establishes the kinship between Aram and Israel, the patriarchs being obviously Arameans. This concept serves as a background and legitimizes the description of Aram in the subsequent accounts.One may first observe the Aramean absence in Joshua. They are so to speak not needed in the context of the fulfillment. The conditions are different in Judges through to 2 Kings. The Arameans appear at thecrucial and pivotal situations of Israel/Judah. Similar to the other nations, they too have the function of the instrument that is present to effect the will of YHWH. Moreover, they have yet another function which distinguishes them, i.e. that of the confederated instrument. Aramean groups or individuals play the role of close collaborators to Elijah/Elisha and Jehu. They appear in these cases in order to effect YHWH's punishment on Israel, but they are never allowed to annihilate her. Aram, Israel's old and unconquered antagonist deserves therefore the epithet Enemy Friend.