Topical Bible: Israel: Under the Judges: Led by Elon for Ten Years

◄ Israel: Under the Judges: Led by Elon for Ten Years ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

During the period of the Judges, Israel experienced cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. This era was marked by the leadership of various judges whom God raised to deliver His people from their enemies and to guide them in righteousness. One such judge was Elon, who served as a leader of Israel for ten years.

Elon the Zebulunite

Elon was from the tribe of Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His leadership is briefly mentioned in the Book of Judges, which provides a concise account of his tenure. The Bible states: "After him, Elon the Zebulunite judged Israel, and he judged Israel ten years" (Judges 12:11). This passage highlights the duration of his judgeship but offers limited details about his actions or the specific challenges faced by Israel during his leadership.

Context of Elon's Judgeship

Elon's judgeship occurred during a tumultuous period in Israel's history. The nation was often beset by external threats and internal strife, largely due to their recurring disobedience to God's commandments. The cyclical nature of Israel's faithfulness and rebellion is a central theme in the Book of Judges. While the text does not provide specific accounts of Elon's deeds, his role as a judge implies that he was instrumental in maintaining order and delivering justice during his time.

Significance of Elon's Leadership

Though the biblical record of Elon is brief, his inclusion among the judges signifies his importance in the history of Israel. Each judge played a crucial role in the preservation and governance of the nation during a time when there was no centralized monarchy. Elon's leadership for a decade suggests a period of relative stability and continuity for the tribe of Zebulun and possibly for the broader confederation of Israelite tribes.

Burial and Legacy

The Bible records the conclusion of Elon's life with the statement: "Then Elon the Zebulunite died and was buried in Aijalon in the land of Zebulun" (Judges 12:12). This mention of his burial place in Aijalon, a location within the territory of Zebulun, underscores his connection to his tribe and his role as a regional leader.

While the scriptural account of Elon is limited, his decade-long judgeship is a testament to the ongoing need for leadership and divine guidance in Israel's history. His account, like those of other judges, reflects the broader narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, even amidst their recurring struggles and failures.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 12:11,12
And after him Elon, a Zebulonite, judged Israel; and he judged Israel ten years.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ...
... In his time, in the fifteenth year, Israel was carried ... and the holy place shall be
trodden under foot? ... According to Judges 12:11, Elon the Zebulonite succeeded ...
/.../the stromata or miscellanies/chapter xxi the jewish institutions and.htm

The Historical Books.
... some sort an appendix to the book of Judges, though probably ... forsake her own country
and kindred to trust under the wings of the Lord God of Israel (ch.2 ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... were known by posterity as the judges of Israel.*. ... that we meet with in classical
times under the form ... These judges were not magistrates invested with official ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm