>In other words, my challenge to you is to help me understand how the other cultures of that era mix in with this epic battle between the two cabals.
Not the OP but I would assume the Israelites figured out quickly that mass slaughter was not the most effective way to destroy a people. So what did the Cabal do? They started their age old assimilation strategy with the Phoenicians first.
The cabal did what it always does. Intertwine your beliefs, rituals, and gods into the society of your enemy, until your enemy becomes you.
Gives a whole new meaning to the phrase, "If you can't beat em', join em'!"