What is the meaning of Judges 10:3?

After him

“After him” (Judges 10:3) links this verse to the ministry of Tola (Judges 10:1-2).

• God’s pattern: raise a deliverer, grant rest, then prepare the next servant (Judges 2:16-18).

• Continuity reminds Israel—and us—that the Lord never abandons His people even in cycles of sin (Psalm 94:14).

Cross references: Judges 3:9-11; Deuteronomy 31:8; 1 Samuel 12:11.

---

Jair

Jair’s name appears earlier among the families of Manasseh (Numbers 32:41).

• A tangible example that God calls ordinary individuals to extraordinary tasks (1 Corinthians 1:26-29).

• Like Gideon or Deborah, Jair steps forward at God’s appointed time (Judges 6:14; 4:4-5).

Cross references: Joshua 13:30; Hebrews 11:32-34.

---

the Gileadite

Gilead, east of the Jordan, was rugged pastureland (Genesis 31:21-25).

• Shows God’s reach beyond the central tribes into Transjordan (Psalm 108:8).

• Highlights unity of all Israel under one Judge despite geographic diversity (1 Kings 4:13).

Cross references: Deuteronomy 3:13; Hosea 6:8.

---

who judged Israel

To “judge” (shophat) involved leading militarily, settling disputes, and calling people back to covenant faithfulness (Judges 2:18-19).

• God provides leadership tailored to Israel’s immediate needs (Exodus 18:25-26).

• The office foreshadows the coming King who will judge perfectly (Isaiah 11:3-4).

Cross references: 1 Samuel 7:15-17; Acts 13:20-23.

---

twenty-two years

This length indicates a substantial period of stability.

• God can grant extended seasons of peace when His people follow His ways (Leviticus 26:6).

• Even so, the narrative soon records Israel’s relapse (Judges 10:6), underscoring the need for a permanent Redeemer (Romans 8:3).

Cross references: Judges 3:30; 1 Kings 15:33; Psalm 78:38-39.

---

summary

Judges 10:3 records God’s faithful succession plan: after Tola, He raises Jair from distant Gilead to shepherd the nation. Jair’s twenty-two-year tenure testifies to divine provision, unity across tribal lines, and the Lord’s desire for lasting peace. Yet the verse also prepares readers for Israel’s recurring need of salvation, ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the righteous Judge who reigns forever.