Convergence and Dispersion as Theological Concepts in the Old Testament

Convergence and Dispersion as Theological Concepts in the Old Testament

WONG Fook Kong

The Bible is the story of God and his interaction with this world. Like our much more limited stories, it is filled with “convergence” and “dispersion.” Furthermore, these events are not just physical movements from one place to another or the meeting of one person with another. In most cases, they are emotional experiences for the people involved. More importantly, they are imbued with theological meanings that signify God's pleasure or displeasure, blessing or curse, and one's relationship with him. In this essay I wish to look at a cross section of biblical texts through the lenses of convergence and dispersion to see how they depict the relationship of God with this world and his chosen people, Israel.
The Pentateuch begins with a series of convergences/gatherings and dispersions/separations. These are creative acts that brings forth the world and humanity. These creative acts of convergences and dispersions are echoed in the creation of the chosen race, the creation of a chosen people of God, their settlement in Canaan, and their resettlement in Canaan. In each case, dispersion takes place before convergence. Although dispersion is usually viewed negatively, it is the precursor to convergence in these instances and, thus, becomes positive. The themes of convergence and dispersion can also take on negative connotations. The sin of Adam and Eve, the gathering of the people at the plain of Shinar, and the sins of the Israelites all resulted in expulsions from their land of residence. Through these themes we see how God alternately blesses or judges the people and worked out his will in this world.