Bible Dictionary
JUDGES, PERIOD OF
The period of the Judges extended from Joshua’s death to the establishment of Israel’s monarchy. During this time Israel faced foreign oppression, internal strife, religious unfaithfulness, and deliverance through judges raised up by God.
Biblical Usage
The biblical interpretation of the period presents oppression as the result of disobedience and deliverance as following repentance and return to Yahweh. The recurring pattern prepares the way for the need for permanent national leadership.