Introduction to the Book of Judges

Date Written: Likely written between 1045–1000 BCE, covering events from about 1380–1050 BCE (late bronze age to early iron age).

Author: Traditionally attributed to Samuel, though not explicitly stated.

Recipient: The people of Israel, to remind them of their history and need for God.

Purpose of this Book

Judges recounts the turbulent time between Joshua’s leadership and the rise of the monarchy in Israel. It shows a repeated cycle: Israel rebels, God allows oppression, the people cry out, and God raises a judge to deliver them. This cycle reveals the consequences of disobedience and the need for godly leadership.

Cool Fact:

One of the most famous judges, Samson, had supernatural strength and an equally dramatic downfall—and yet God still used him to accomplish His purposes.

Theme:

-Thank The cycle of sin, judgment, repentance, and deliverance.
-God’s mercy despite Israel’s unfaithfulness.
-The need for godly leadership.

Key Verse:

“In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”
-Judges 21:25

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As you read, take time to reflect on who Jesus says He is and what that means for your faith today.