The Tanakh Podcast

Chapter 4 tells of the astounding victory of Devorah and Barak against Yavin King of Canaan and his military captain, Sisera.

Two invasions, two victories. This Chapter tells us the victories of Otniel ben Kenaz over Kushan; and Ehud Ben Gera's dazzling assassination of Eglon, King of Moav - in what might be "the perfect murder".

Our chapter describes a repetitive historical pattern" Israel serve idolatry - they get invaded - they cry out to God - they get saved.
This pattern is not random; it is Divine providence, as the nation are punished over and over for their sins. This is the reality for 300 years of history in the land of Israel.

We begin with a short introduction to the Book of Judges and then move to describe the opening chapter. Each tribe is listed by what they did NOT manage to conquer. The issue is that with Israel at times a minority in their own territorial portions, they are susceptible to the influence of idolatry. Chapter 2:1-5 warns that this idolatry will be their undoing.
For a longer introduction to Shoftim, see https://youtu.be/UifLwWJruVU
Sourcesheet https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NBsv5zkTmZRj79yfK51SdXdFADdYhE0J/view?usp=sharing

Joshua gathers the people in Shchem and asks them if they want to worship idolatry or God!
Where have we ever seen a leader giving a choice of this sort to the nation?
And it all takes place at a Temple in Shchem. IS there a Temple in Shchem? What about Shiloh?
What is the purpose of this gathering?