semiopen

Sorry, I misunderstood Finis.

Regarding post exilic, I was wondering about that myself, I've only been involved in this field for a few years, and actually have been suprised that I don't make more mistakes.

There was a previous thread where it was pointed out that Deuteronomy 12-31 was the only place in the Pentateuch to ban human sacrifice.

Deuteronomy 12 seems quite extraordinary, including 12:15 as you pointed out. I'm not clear if the eating of unclean animals is allowed, probably not but just an indication of how murky this passage is.

In my opinion, there is no way this passage could have been written before Josiah, my impression is that it is a later addition where miscellaneous details are clarified. If this is true and Deuteronomy originates from Josiah, it seems plausible that Deuteronomy 12 is post exilic. My personal speculation, I'm sure it could be disputed by knowledgeable people.

Sorry again for misunderstanding. Actually Friedman's remark about the ritual slaughter requirement puzzled me when I read his book a few years ago. I tend to think he was right now, but I'm not sure I'd want to debate that with a formidable opponent. Probably made me defensive.