ספר שופטים
Sefer Shoftim (Book of Leaders)
The book of Judges is a truly remarkable literary work that has captured the attention of countless scholars, students, and faithful alike. Its profound mysteries have inspired the most curious minds to delve into its pages, eager to unearth the timeless wisdom contained within. Though the identity of its true author remains shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: this was a labor of love. Crafted with passion and deep understanding, the book of Judges tells a story that has captivated generations.
Many experts have offered their thoughts on its origins, but after extensive analysis, it is believed that the revered prophet Samuel was the prime author. It is said that he dedicated himself to the task during his retirement from public life, which allowed him the freedom to pour his soul into the meticulous work before him. What’s more, the book is believed to have been drawn from eyewitness accounts of previous judges and their reigns, adding even more authority and depth to this timeless scripture.
We can all be inspired anew by this powerful work, which embodies an unwavering faith in its origins. Let us take up the mantle of those who have come before us and continue to explore the mysteries of the book of Judges with fresh eyes and open hearts.
Chapter 1 || Chapter 2 || Chapter 3 || Chapter 4 || Chapter 5
Chapter 6 || Chapter 7 || Chapter 8 || Chapter 9 || Chapter 10
Chapter 11 || Chapter 12 || Chapter 13 || Chapter 14 || Chapter 15
Chapter 16 || Chapter 17 || Chapter 18 || Chapter 19 || Chapter 20
Conquests by Judah – Jephthah conquers Ammon
- Conquests by Judah
- Jerusalem taken
- The acts of Benjamin
- Nations remaining unconquered
- An angel rebukes Israel
- A wicked generation
- Forsaking God for Baal and Ashtaroth
- Judges defied
- Nations left to prove Israel
- Othniel as Judge
- Ehud slays Eglon
- Deborah and Barak deliver Israel
- Death of Sisera
- Song of Deborah and Barak
- Midian opressess Israel
- Gideon and the angel
- Gideon’s signs
- Gideon’s 300
- The lamps and pitchers
- Midian defeated
- Gideon slays Midian’s kings
- Gideon’s children and death
- Israel’s return to idolatry
- Abimelech made king
- Jotham’s fable
- God sends an evil spirit
- Gaal’s conspiracy
- Abimelech slain
- Judges Tola and Jair
- Again Israel serves Baalim and Ashtaroth
- The misery of Israel
- Jephthah captains Gilead
- Jephthah’s message to Ammon
- Jephthah’s vow
- Jephthah conquers Ammon
The quarrel with Ephraim – Wives provided for the remnant
- The quarrel with Ephraim
- Jephthah dies
- Subsequent judges
- An angel and Manaoh
- Manoah’s offering
- Birth of Samson
- Samson’s strength
- Samson’s feast and riddle
- Philistines slain
- Samson’s wife denied him
- Samson burns the corn and vineyards
- Other feast of Samson
- Samson kills 1000 men with jawbone of an ass
- Samson’s escape from Gaza
- Delilah’s importunity
- Samson’s tragic death
- Micah’s molten image
- Hired priest
- Dan seeks new territory
- Micah’s images and priests taken away
- Laish conquered
- The Levite of mount Ephraim
- His Treatment at Gibeah
- His concubine divided
- The Levite vindicated
- War Declared
- Benjamin vanquished
- Benjamin’s future lamented
- Wives provided for the remnant