Abstract
Building on the argument of an earlier contribution of James K. Aitken (2000), this
article aims to explain why the Greek toponym Σαττιν does not translate the word הַ שּׁ טּים
(Shittim) in LXX Micah 6:5. The Massoretic text reads ‘from Shittim to Gilgal’. The
LXX translator uses σχοῖνος to appeal to all readerships. While the educated reader is
aware of the location and significance of Shittim, these might not be obvious for the
less educated majority. As the meaning of σχοῖνος varies (rush, reed, bramble, thorn,
and a type of measure used in Egypt, or even a more generic bush), its interpretation
changes as one contemplates in context each of these meanings. Ultimately, the simplest
audience could read this extension of time/space of ἀπὸ τῶν σχοίνων ἕως τοῦ Γαλγαλ
as referring to the whole history of Exodus, from the burning bush to Gilgal.
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