Shamgar's Battlefield

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Era of the Judges

The Book of Judges is a significant part of the Bible, located after the Book of Joshua and before the Book of Ruth. It tells the story of the Israelites during a time when they did not have a king. Instead, God raised up leaders called Judges to deliver the people from their enemies and lead them in times of crisis. This period lasted for several hundred years, and it was marked by a repeating cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Understanding this cycle is crucial as we delve into the brave tale of Shamgar and his battle against the Philistines.

In Judges 2:11-12 (KJV), we read, "And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim: And they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods." This verse highlights the central issue of this era: the Israelites often turned away from God to worship false idols. This disobedience led to their downfall. When the people moved away from God's ways, they faced the consequences of their actions. This is after God brought them through the wilderness with Moses, and brought them into the promised land with Joshua. Moses and Joshua are now dead, and their leaders are judges.

As a result, God would allow their enemies to oppress them. The Israelites found themselves under the control of powerful groups, including the Canaanites and the Philistines. In Judges 3:14 (KJV), it says, "So the children of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years." This oppression lasted for many years and brought suffering to the people. They cried out to God in their misery, and in their desperation, they repented for their wrongdoing.

In response to their cries, God raised up Judges, individuals chosen to lead and deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. Each Judge was a unique character, often filled with flaws and strengths, demonstrating that God can use anyone who is willing to answer His call. For example, Judges 3:9 (KJV) states, "And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother." This marks the beginning of the cycle of deliverance that God provided to His people.

The cultural backdrop of this period is vital for understanding the challenges faced by the Israelites. After the death of Joshua, who led them into the Promised Land, the tribes of Israel were dispersed. Each tribe was responsible for its territory, which sometimes led to conflicts and disunity. There was no central government or king to unite them, making them vulnerable to external threats. As stated in Judges 17:6 (KJV), "In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes." This verse captures the lawlessness and moral confusion that characterized the time.

The land itself – filled with hills, valleys, and resources – became both a blessing and a source of conflict among neighboring tribes and nations. The Israelites struggled to maintain their identity and faith in an environment where surrounding cultures worshipped many false gods. This struggle sets the stage and setting for the remarkable stories of the Judges, including Shamgar.

In conclusion, the era of the Judges is marked by a cycle of sin and redemption, emphasizing the importance of repentance and God's mercy. It shows us the challenges the Israelites faced as they wandered from God's path. As we embark on the journey of Shamgar's battle against the Philistines, understanding the historical and cultural context of Judges is essential to appreciating the courage and faith displayed during this tumultuous time in Israel's history.