4Q372 1 and the Continuation of Joseph’s Exile

It has been argued that the fragment 4Q372 1 contains polemic against the Samaritans and their temple cult at Gerizim. While allusions to Samaritans are found in the text, their presence signifies to the restored southern tribes that their restoration is not yet complete. Since the northern tribes, represented by the person of Joseph, remain in foreign lands, the promised deliverance of Deut 32 remains unfulfilled. In contrast to those in the south who might be tempted to conclude, with Ps 78, that God had rejected Joseph, 4Q372 1 suggests that the south's fate is inextricably intertwined with Joseph's fate.