Chapter one highlights how Judah and Simeon conquer some land, but the majority of Israel failed to drive out many natives of the land. The chapter begins, “After Joshua died, the Israelites asked the Lord, “Which tribe should attack the Canaanites first?” The Lord answered, “Judah, for I have given them victory over the land.” (Judges 1:1-2)
The leaders of Judah then propositioned the tribe of Simeon (their relatives) to join them in their fight against the Canaanites, striking a deal to help one another conquer their territories. As promised, the Lord gave them victory over the Canaanites and Perizzites in Bezek. The king of Bezek, Adoni-bezek, escaped, but was captured. The Israelites cut off his thumbs and big toes. “Adoni-bezek said, “I once had seventy kings with thumbs and big toes cut off, eating scraps from under my table. Now God has paid me back for what I did to them.” (Judges 1:7) Wow...I guess we reap what we sow.
Side note: As I am reading this chapter, I’m recognizing that it is repeating events that took place before Joshua’s death, or mentioned in the book of Joshua before he died. I’m not sure the events happened before or after Joshua died, but this chapter implies the events came after. The first three words of Judges are, “After Joshua died”. Later in the chapter (Judges 1:12), it states, “Then Caleb said, “I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage to the one who attacks and captures Kiriath-sepher.” In Joshua 15:16, it says the exact same thing, including the next 2 verses, word for word. One chapter or book is obviously summarizing the other, but which is which? As usual, if anyone knows, finds out, or has relevant information to share, please place a comment.
The second half of the chapter highlights how Israel failed to conquer the land. It references the various tribes that were unable to drive out some of the people in the land they were occupying. These same tribes and their inability to remove the people were also mentioned in the book of Joshua.
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Help us understand your Word and make it plain to us. We love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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