and ancient Near Eastern law codes. This syntax projects a hypothetical situation; a particular law applies only “if” or “when” a certain situation arises.7 an offering Hebrew korban, “offering,” is a generic term for anything presented to God when one approaches (karav) His sanctuary. A korban could consist of artifacts and vessels, votive objects, or sacrificial victims, as is the case here. Archaeological excavations at various sites, including Jerusalem and its environs, have turned up objects