Hebrew Bible judges facts for kids
The Hebrew Bible judges were important leaders in ancient Israel. They are mostly described in the Book of Judges in the Hebrew Bible. These judges were often military leaders who helped the Israelite people during difficult times. This was before Israel had kings.
What the Judges Did
The Book of Judges tells a repeating story about why judges were needed. First, the Israelite people would stop following God. Then, God would allow their enemies to cause them trouble. The people would then cry out to God for help. Finally, God would send a judge to rescue them.
The judges were seen as people chosen by God. They would lead the people against their enemies. They also helped bring fairness and order. The word "judge" comes from the Hebrew word shophet. This word means more like a leader or a rescuer, rather than someone who just makes legal decisions in a courtroom.
Many experts believe these judges were local leaders of different tribes. They might not have led all of Israel at once. However, the Bible says their authority was recognized by groups beyond their own tribe.
When Did They Live?
Historians and scholars have different ideas about the judges. Some, like Kenneth Kitchen, think that the Israelite tribes formed a loose group. This was after Joshua conquered Canaan and before the first Kingdom of Israel was formed. During this time, there was no central government. So, in times of trouble, leaders called judges would step up.
The Book of Judges suggests this period lasted about 300 years. However, some judges might have led at the same time in different areas. For example, some experts believe Deborah's victory happened around 1216 BCE.
Some scholars are not sure if the judges described in the Bible were real historical figures. They debate whether such a role truly existed in ancient Israel.
Judges in the Hebrew Bible
The Bible mentions several people who "judged" Israel. Even Moses is described as a shofet (judge) over the Israelites. He even appointed other people to help him with cases.
The Book of Judges names twelve main leaders:
- Othniel
- Ehud
- Shamgar
- Deborah (the only female judge mentioned)
- Gideon
- Tola
- Jair
- Jephthah
- Ibzan
- Elon
- Abdon
- Samson
The First Book of Samuel also mentions Eli and Samuel as judges. Samuel's two sons, Joel and Abiah, are also mentioned.
The Book of Judges also tells the story of Abimelech. He was Gideon's son and became a leader in the city of Shechem. However, his time as a leader was short and ended in conflict. Some people question if he should be called a judge.
The Bible usually says these leaders "judged Israel" rather than calling them "a judge." For example, it says Othniel "judged Israel forty years." Deborah was a prophetess and the fourth judge of Israel. Her name, Dəḇōrā, means "bee."
See also
- Shophet
- Judges in the Book of Mormon
