King James Version

What Does Judges 2:17 Mean?

And yet they would not hearken unto their judges, but they went a whoring after other gods, and bowed themselves unto them: they turned quickly out of the way which their fathers walked in, obeying the commandments of the LORD; but they did not so.

Context

15

Whithersoever they went out, the hand of the LORD was against them for evil, as the LORD had said, and as the LORD had sworn unto them: and they were greatly distressed.

16

Nevertheless the LORD raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them. delivered: Heb. saved

17

And yet they would not hearken unto their judges, but they went a whoring after other gods, and bowed themselves unto them: they turned quickly out of the way which their fathers walked in, obeying the commandments of the LORD; but they did not so.

18

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.

19

And it came to pass, when the judge was dead, that they returned, and corrupted themselves more than their fathers, in following other gods to serve them, and to bow down unto them; they ceased not from their own doings, nor from their stubborn way. corrupted: or, were corrupt ceased: Heb. let nothing fall of their

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(17) **Went a whoring.**—Idolatry throughout the Bible is regarded as a spiritual adultery. (Exodus 34:15; Isaiah 54:5; Jeremiah 3:8; Ezekiel 23:37; Hosea 2:7; 2Corinthians 11:2, &c.) **The way which their fathers walked in.**—As described in Judges 2:7.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Judges 2:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Judges 2:17

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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