Judges
Purpose
Records the cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance during the era before Israel had kings.
Author
Traditionally Samuel
Time Period
Written c. 1050-1000 BC; events c. 1375-1050 BC
Key Themes
- Cycles of sin
- Deliverers
- Covenant unfaithfulness
- Everyone did right in their own eyes
- Need for a king
Outline
Introduction and pattern (ch. 1-3); the major and minor judges (ch. 3-16); civil disorder and decline (ch. 17-21).