Judges 2:18

KJV

And when the LORD raised them up judges, then the LORD was with the judge, and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge: for it repented the LORD because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when the LORD {H3068} raised {H6965} them up judges {H8199}, then the LORD {H3068} was with the judge {H8199}, and delivered {H3467} them out of the hand {H3027} of their enemies {H341} all the days {H3117} of the judge {H8199}: for it repented {H5162} the LORD {H3068} because {H6440} of their groanings {H5009} by reason of them that oppressed {H3905} them and vexed {H1766} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

When ADONAI raised up judges for them, ADONAI was with the judge and delivered them from the hands of their enemies throughout the lifetime of the judge; for ADONAI was moved to pity by their groaning under those oppressing and crushing them.

Berean Standard Bible

Whenever the LORD raised up a judge for the Israelites, He was with that judge and saved them from the hands of their enemies while the judge was still alive; for the LORD was moved to pity by their groaning under those who oppressed them and afflicted them.

American Standard Version

And when Jehovah raised them up judges, then Jehovah was with the judge, and saved them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge: for it repented Jehovah because of their groaning by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Judges 2:18 is a foundational verse that encapsulates the recurring cycle of apostasy, oppression, and divine deliverance characteristic of the period of the Judges. It reveals God's profound compassion and mercy, demonstrating His willingness to respond to the desperate "groanings" of His people by raising up charismatic leaders, or "judges," who would deliver Israel from their oppressors for the duration of their leadership, despite the Israelites' persistent unfaithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Judges 2:18 serves as a pivotal explanatory verse within the theological introduction to the Book of Judges, immediately following the divine indictment of Israel's disobedience (cf. [Judges 2:11-15](/judges/2-11 "Judges 2:11-15 - Israel's Disobedience and Punishment")). This verse describes God's compassionate response within the established cycle of sin, judgment, and repentance, before the narrative transitions into the specific accounts of individual judges, such as Othniel, Ehud, and Deborah. It sets the stage for understanding the recurring pattern that will unfold throughout the subsequent chapters, explaining *why* God continued to deliver a rebellious people. Crucially, it also subtly foreshadows the temporary nature of this deliverance, setting up the explanation in [Judges 2:19](/judges/2-19 "Judges 2:19 - The Cycle Repeats") that the people would revert to their evil ways after the judge's death.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the Judges, following Joshua's death and preceding the monarchy, was a time of significant spiritual and political instability for Israel. The tribes were largely decentralized, lacking a unified national government or a strong central religious authority. This vacuum allowed for increased intermingling with the remaining Canaanite populations, leading to widespread syncretism and idolatry, as detailed in [Judges 2:11-13](/judges/2-11 "Judges 2:11-13 - Israel Forsook the LORD"). The "enemies" mentioned in the verse refer to various surrounding peoples—such as the Mesopotamians, Moabites, Ammonites, Philistines, and Midianites—whom God allowed to oppress Israel as a consequence of their disobedience. The "judges" were not primarily legal figures in the modern sense, but rather charismatic, divinely appointed military and spiritual leaders who emerged in times of crisis to deliver specific tribes or regions from oppression.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several core themes prevalent throughout the Book of Judges and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights God's **unwavering compassion and mercy**, even in the face of human rebellion. Despite Israel's repeated turning away from Him, their suffering and "groanings" moved the LORD to action, demonstrating a consistent aspect of His character found also in [Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6 "Exodus 34:6-7 - The LORD, a Compassionate God"). Secondly, it emphasizes **divine initiative and sovereignty** in deliverance; God "raised them up judges," indicating that salvation was always His work, not a result of Israel's inherent righteousness or strength. Thirdly, the verse illustrates the **cyclical nature of sin, judgment, and grace**, a pattern that defines the entire book, where Israel's apostasy leads to oppression, their cry leads to God's compassion, and then to deliverance, only for the cycle to restart. Finally, it points to the **temporary nature of human leadership** and the need for a more permanent solution, as the deliverance only lasted "all the days of the judge," foreshadowing the later longing for a king and ultimately, the need for a perfect, eternal deliverer.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"repented" (Hebrew, _nāḥam'_):** In this context, the Hebrew verb _nāḥam_ (נחם) does not imply that God changed His mind in a fickle or indecisive way, as if He regretted His divine plan or character. Instead, it conveys a deep emotional response of sorrow, grief, compassion, or comfort. It signifies God's profound empathy and pity for His suffering people, moving Him to act on their behalf. This anthropomorphic expression highlights God's relational nature and His deep concern for the anguish of His creation, even when that anguish is a direct result of their own sin.
* **"groanings" (Hebrew, _nā'aqāh'_):** The noun _nā'aqāh_ (נאקה) refers to a deep, heartfelt cry of distress, anguish, or pain, often associated with the suffering of the oppressed. It is not merely a complaint, but a visceral expression of profound misery and helplessness. This word emphasizes the intensity of Israel's suffering under oppression and serves as the catalyst for God's compassionate intervention, echoing the "groaning" of the Israelites under Egyptian bondage in [Exodus 2:24](/exodus/2-24 "Exodus 2:24 - God Heard Their Groaning").
* **"judges" (Hebrew, _šōp̄ṭîm'_):** The Hebrew term _šōp̄ṭîm_ (שופטים) refers to those who "judge" or "govern." However, in the context of the Book of Judges, these individuals were primarily charismatic military deliverers or saviors, raised by God to liberate Israel from foreign oppression. While some may have exercised judicial functions, their primary role was to lead the people in battle and restore order, embodying God's direct intervention in their affairs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when the LORD raised them up judges":** This clause emphasizes God's sovereign initiative. It was not Israel's strength or cunning, but God's deliberate act of raising up specific individuals, empowering them for the task of deliverance. This highlights divine grace preceding human action.
* **"then the LORD was with the judge":** This signifies divine presence and empowerment. The success of the judge was not due to their own inherent abilities but to the LORD's active presence and backing. This divine endorsement ensured the judge's authority and effectiveness in leading Israel to victory.
* **"and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge":** This specifies the scope and duration of the deliverance. God's intervention brought tangible freedom from oppression, but this freedom was limited to the lifespan or active leadership period of the particular judge. This temporary nature sets the stage for the recurring cycle described in the subsequent verse.
* **"for it repented the LORD because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them":** This final clause provides the theological motivation for God's action. His compassion, not Israel's merit or repentance, was the driving force. The "groanings" of His people, born of their suffering under oppression, moved Him to pity and intervention, demonstrating His enduring mercy despite their unfaithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
Judges 2:18 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Cyclical Narrative**, as the verse itself describes the repeating pattern of Israel's apostasy, divine judgment, their cry for help, and God's compassionate deliverance, which forms the structural backbone of the entire book. This repetition underscores Israel's stubbornness and God's persistent grace. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the phrase "it repented the LORD," attributing human emotion (sorrow, compassion) to God to make His deep empathy relatable and understandable to a human audience, without implying any change in His immutable character. Furthermore, the verse highlights **Divine Intervention**, portraying God as the active agent who "raised them up judges" and "delivered them," emphasizing His sovereignty and His direct involvement in the affairs of His people. There is also a subtle **Contrast** between God's unwavering faithfulness and compassion and Israel's recurring unfaithfulness, which serves to magnify God's grace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judges 2:18 is a profound theological statement on God's character, revealing His deep compassion and faithfulness even when His covenant people are unfaithful. It demonstrates that God's mercy is not contingent on Israel's perfect obedience but is activated by their desperate cries for help, stemming from His inherent nature as a loving Father. This verse establishes a pattern of divine response to human suffering that resonates throughout biblical history, assuring believers that God hears the cries of His people, regardless of the circumstances that led to their distress. It underscores that deliverance is ultimately God's work, initiated by His pity and executed through His chosen instruments, providing temporary relief while pointing to the need for a more permanent and ultimate salvation.

* [Exodus 2:23-25](/exodus/2-23 "Exodus 2:23-25 - God Hears Israel's Cry in Egypt")
* [Psalm 106:43-45](/psalms/106-43 "Psalm 106:43-45 - God Remembers His Covenant")
* [Isaiah 63:9](/isaiah/63-9 "Isaiah 63:9 - God's Affliction with His People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Judges 2:18 offers immense encouragement for believers today, reminding us of God's enduring compassion and readiness to respond to our distress. It teaches us that even when our suffering is a consequence of our own poor choices, disobedience, or rebellion, God is not distant or indifferent. Like Israel's "groanings," our heartfelt cries of anguish, repentance, or desperation can move the heart of our compassionate Father. He is ever ready to provide deliverance, whether through direct intervention, by raising up wise counsel, supportive communities, or specific leaders in our lives. This verse challenges us to turn to God in our moments of deepest need, trusting in His mercy rather than our own merit, and to recognize that His faithfulness remains even when ours falters. It also calls us to consider the temporary nature of earthly solutions and to seek the ultimate, enduring deliverance found only in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's "repenting" in this verse deepen or challenge your understanding of His divine nature and immutability?**
* **In what ways might our "groanings" today be a cry for deliverance, and how can we ensure they are genuine expressions of dependence on God?**
* **How does God raise up "judges" or deliverers in our contemporary lives, and what is our role in recognizing and cooperating with His provision?**
* **What lessons can we draw from the temporary nature of the judges' deliverance regarding our pursuit of lasting freedom from sin and its consequences?**

### FAQ
**Does "it repented the LORD" mean God changes His mind or regrets His actions?**

Answer: No, the phrase "it repented the LORD" (Hebrew: _nāḥam_) does not mean God changes His mind in a way that implies indecision or a flaw in His divine plan or character. Instead, in this context, it conveys God's deep emotional response of sorrow, grief, or compassion in the face of His people's suffering. It signifies His profound pity and willingness to relieve their distress. God's immutability refers to His unchanging character, nature, and ultimate purposes, but He is also a dynamic, relational God who interacts with His creation and responds to their conditions, particularly their cries for help. His "repenting" here highlights His compassionate heart, not a shift in His divine will or eternal decrees. This is consistent with other passages like [Exodus 32:14](/exodus/32-14 "Exodus 32:14 - The LORD Relented") where God "relents" from a threatened judgment due to intercession or a change in circumstances.

**What was the primary role of a "judge" in the Book of Judges?**

Answer: The "judges" (Hebrew: _šōp̄ṭîm_) in the Book of Judges were not primarily legal figures in the modern sense, presiding over court cases. Their main role was that of charismatic, divinely appointed military and spiritual deliverers. They were raised up by the LORD (as seen in [Judges 2:16](/judges/2-16 "Judges 2:16 - God Raised Up Judges")) to rescue Israel from the oppression of foreign enemies. They were leaders who rallied the tribes, led them into battle, and restored a measure of peace and order for a period. Their authority and success stemmed directly from the LORD being "with the judge." While some may have exercised judicial functions (like Deborah in [Judges 4:4-5](/judges/4-4 "Judges 4:4-5 - Deborah, a Judge in Israel")), their defining characteristic was their role as saviors and liberators of the people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The cycle of sin, suffering, and temporary deliverance through judges in the Book of Judges powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and permanent deliverance offered in Jesus Christ. The judges, though divinely appointed, were flawed and temporary saviors whose effectiveness lasted only "all the days of the judge," leaving Israel to fall back into sin after their death. This constant need for new deliverers highlighted humanity's deeper problem—the pervasive power of sin and the need for a perfect, eternal solution. Jesus, however, is the ultimate Judge and Deliverer, not merely a temporary rescuer from external oppression but the one who delivers us from the bondage of sin itself (cf. [Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin is Death")). Where the judges brought physical relief, Christ brings spiritual and eternal salvation. He is the sympathetic High Priest who truly understands our "groanings," having been tempted in every way, yet without sin (cf. [Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sympathetic High Priest")). He doesn't just deliver for a season; He offers a new covenant where His Spirit empowers us to live in ongoing freedom, and His reign is eternal, ensuring that the cycle of sin and oppression is definitively broken for those who trust in Him. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (cf. [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), providing a salvation far greater and more enduring than any judge could offer.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 32:36

For the LORD shall judge his people, and repent himself for his servants, when he seeth that [their] power is gone, and [there is] none shut up, or left.

Joshua 1:5

There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, [so] I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Exodus 2:24

And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.

2 Kings 13:22

But Hazael king of Syria oppressed Israel all the days of Jehoahaz.

2 Kings 13:23

And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.

Hosea 11:8

¶ How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? [how] shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? [how] shall I set thee as Zeboim? mine heart is turned within me, my repentings are kindled together.

Psalms 106:44

Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry: