Judges 10:2

Tola judged Israel twenty-three years, and when he died, he was buried in Shamir.

Study Bible

He judged Israel
The phrase "He judged Israel" refers to the role of Tola as a judge over the nation of Israel. In the Hebrew context, the word "judged" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) implies more than just legal adjudication; it encompasses leadership, governance, and deliverance. Judges were raised by God to lead and deliver Israel during times of oppression. Tola's role as a judge signifies a divinely appointed leadership, emphasizing God's sovereignty in choosing leaders for His people. This reflects the cyclical pattern in the Book of Judges, where God raises judges to restore order and faithfulness among the Israelites.

twenty-three years
The duration of "twenty-three years" indicates a period of stability and peace under Tola's leadership. In the context of the Book of Judges, the length of a judge's rule often correlates with the level of peace and obedience to God experienced by Israel. This period suggests that Tola was effective in maintaining order and guiding the people in the ways of the Lord. The specific mention of the number of years highlights the importance of each judge's contribution to Israel's history and the divine orchestration of time in God's plan.

then he died
The phrase "then he died" marks the end of Tola's leadership and life. In the narrative of Judges, the death of a judge often precedes a time of spiritual decline and disobedience among the Israelites, leading to oppression by foreign powers. This cycle underscores the need for continual reliance on God and faithful leadership. Tola's death serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of human leadership and the eternal sovereignty of God, who raises and removes leaders according to His divine purpose.

and was buried in Shamir
The mention of Tola being "buried in Shamir" provides a geographical and cultural context. Shamir, located in the hill country of Ephraim, was Tola's place of residence and governance. The act of burial in one's homeland signifies honor and respect, reflecting the esteem in which Tola was held by the people. This detail also serves to root the narrative in a specific historical and cultural setting, emphasizing the tangible reality of the biblical events and the faithfulness of God in specific locations and times.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tola
A judge of Israel who led for twenty-three years. His leadership followed the time of Abimelech, and he is noted for bringing stability to Israel during his tenure.

2. Shamir
The place where Tola was buried. It is located in the hill country of Ephraim, indicating the geographical area of his influence.

3. Israel
The nation that Tola judged. During this period, Israel was often in cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance.

Teaching Points

Faithful Leadership
Tola's twenty-three years of judging Israel demonstrate the importance of consistent and faithful leadership. Leaders today can learn from his example of stability and dedication.

The Importance of Legacy
Tola's burial in Shamir signifies the end of his influence, reminding us that our actions and leadership leave a lasting legacy.

God's Provision
Tola's role as a judge is a testament to God's provision for His people, raising leaders to guide and deliver them in times of need.

The Cycle of Sin and Deliverance
Tola's judgeship is part of the larger account of Israel's repeated cycle of sin and deliverance, emphasizing the need for repentance and reliance on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities of Tola's leadership can we apply to our own roles in our communities or workplaces?

2. How does the cycle of sin and deliverance in Judges reflect our own spiritual journeys, and what steps can we take to break negative cycles?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our legacy, like Tola's, is one of faithfulness and stability?

4. How does understanding the role of judges in Israel help us appreciate the need for godly leadership in today's world?

5. Reflect on a time when God provided a leader or guide in your life. How did that experience shape your faith and actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 2:16-19
This passage provides context for the role of judges in Israel, highlighting the cyclical pattern of sin and deliverance that characterized this period.

1 Samuel 12:11
Samuel references Tola as one of the judges who delivered Israel, indicating his importance in the history of Israel's leadership.

Hebrews 11:32
While Tola is not mentioned by name, this chapter speaks of the faith of judges, which can be seen as a broader connection to the faithfulness required of leaders like Tola.