Judges, The Book of

[He. Shaphat “Judge” pl. Shofetim “Judges”]


Background: Continuing the conquest of the land of Israel which involved conflict with various tribes both in and around Israel. Interwoven in the account is the constant disobedience to God alternating with a turning back to him, and his patient loyalty which is demonstrated in various leaders (judges) who emerged to rally the tribes to fight their enemies. 16chs.


Courtesy of Alexander Scourby(Bible Audio)The Book of Judges

Author: Unknown. Some say Samuel


Date and Location: Beginning at Joshua’s death to the monarchy, span 355yrs (1380-1045BC). The recurring observation that “in those days Israel had no king” (17:6; 18:1; 19:1;21:25) suggests that Judges was during the monarchy, perhaps c.1020. This means that Samuel, who lived about 30-40yrs. Into the reign of Saul, could had been its author.

Purpose:
^To show that the external threat of defeat by other nations is not as serious as the internal threat of moral depravity and idolatry; indeed external threats are always result from internal problems
^to show Israel why human kingship became necessary for their nation: human wickedness (8:23) and “people did what ever seemed right in their own sight”(17:6; 2:25)

Comparison:
^Js. There is a strong, sustained leadership and tribe unity; Jg., no sustained leader and tribe disunity
^Js., Israel takes land from Canaanites; Jg. , the Canaanites take land from Israel
^Js., emphasizes obedience, victory and freedom; Jg. Shows disobedience, defeat and slavery

Abbreviations: : Judg. /Jdg./Jud./ Jgs./ jg.

MV: Sentence by sentence by sentences, Pr16:10
Bib1Yr:Jr37-39Those kings


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