How does Judges 2:5 connect to the theme of obedience in Deuteronomy?

Setting the Scene

• Judges 2:5: “So they called that place Bochim and offered sacrifices there to the LORD.”

• “Bochim” means “weepers,” capturing Israel’s sorrow after hearing the Angel of the LORD confront their disobedience (2:1-4).

• The moment is a living illustration of Deuteronomy’s repeated instruction: obey and live in blessing; rebel and reap sorrow.

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Key Deuteronomy Commands Re-echoed at Bochim

• Deuteronomy 7:2-5—destroy Canaanite altars, make no covenant with them.

– At Bochim, the Angel of the LORD indicts Israel for doing the opposite (Judges 2:2).

• Deuteronomy 6:13-15—fear the LORD alone, shun other gods.

– Israel’s compromise led to future idolatry; the Angel warns their gods will be “a snare” (Judges 2:3).

• Deuteronomy 11:26-28—blessing for obedience, curse for disobedience.

– Bochim’s weeping previews the “curse” side of that covenant equation.

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How Judges 2:5 Reveals Deuteronomy’s Obedience Theme in Action

1. Reminder of Covenant Obligations

• Deuteronomy stresses covenant faithfulness (Deuteronomy 5:32-33).

• The Angel begins with, “I brought you up out of Egypt … I will never break My covenant” (Judges 2:1), anchoring His rebuke in that same covenant.

2. Exposure of Partial Obedience

• Deuteronomy 12:2-3 commands total eradication of pagan worship.

• Israel stopped halfway—living proof that partial obedience equals disobedience (Judges 1:27-36; 2:2).

3. Consequences Foretold, Consequences Felt

• Deuteronomy 28:15 warns of national distress for disobedience.

• In Judges 2:3 the LORD declares He will no longer drive out the nations; Israel mourns at Bochim, tasting the firstfruits of those curses.

4. Call to Heartfelt Repentance

• Deuteronomy 30:1-3 predicts future repentance and restoration.

• Bochim’s sacrifices hint that genuine turning back is still possible even after failure (Judges 2:5).

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Take-Home Principles

• God’s commands in Deuteronomy were not suggestions; Bochim proves He enforces them.

• Compromise with sin produces tears; wholehearted obedience produces blessing (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).

• Covenant faithfulness remains the path to experiencing God’s continued victory and presence (Deuteronomy 31:6; Judges 2:1).

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Summary Snapshot

Bochim is Deuteronomy in real time: Israel hears, disobeys, weeps, and sacrifices. Judges 2:5 therefore stands as a vivid object lesson confirming that the blessings and curses Moses proclaimed were—and still are—utterly literal.