Judge — Meaning in the Bible
In the book of Judges, a leader whom God raised up to deliver Israel and lead it. More generally, someone who decides legal cases.
Scripture in WEBWorld English Bible — Protestant Edition
What it means
After Joshua, God raised up judges who saved Israel from their enemies, such as Othniel, Ehud, Deborah, Gideon and Samson. Samuel also judged Israel. Judges 2:16–18Judges 3:9–101 Samuel 7:15
The law required judges in every town to judge fairly and not take bribes. God is called the Judge of all the earth. Deuteronomy 16:18–20Genesis 18:25
Key passages
- Judges 2:16–19 — Why God raised up judges.
- Judges 4:4–5 — Deborah judges Israel.
- 1 Samuel 7:15–17 — Samuel judges Israel.
- Deuteronomy 16:18–20 — Fair judges.
Different senses
- Deliverer and leader
- The leaders of the book of Judges. Judges 2:16
- Legal judge
- One who decides cases. Deuteronomy 16:18
For children
In the book of Judges, a judge was a leader God chose to rescue his people. Deborah was a judge who helped Israel. Judges 4:4
Study further
- Judges 2:6–23 The pattern of the judges.
- Judges 4–5 Deborah.