Old Testament
Judges 10:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He led Israel as judge for 23 years. Then he died and was buried in Shamir.
Compare translations
And he judged Israel twenty and three years, and died, and was buried in Shamir.
What Judges 10:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Judges 10:2 tells us about a leader in Israel who served as a judge for 23 years. His role was significant as he provided guidance and leadership to the people during a time when they often strayed from their faith. After his long service, he passed away and was buried in a place called Shamir. This verse highlights the importance of leadership in Israel's history and the impact that judges had on the nation. The mention of his burial location signifies respect and remembrance for his contributions. The period of his judgeship likely included challenges and victories, reflecting the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to remain faithful to God amidst external pressures and internal conflicts. His death marks a transition, reminding us that leadership is temporary, and the legacy of a good leader can influence future generations. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faithful leadership and the need for the community to remember and honor those who have guided them.
How to apply Judges 10:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to value and honor the leaders in our lives, recognizing their contributions and the impact they have on our communities. It also reminds us of the importance of faithful leadership and the need to support those who guide us in our spiritual journeys.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Judges 10:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Judges 10:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who was the judge mentioned in Judges 10:2?
Judges 10:2 refers to a judge of Israel who led the people for 23 years. While the verse does not specify his name, it is commonly understood to refer to Tola, who is mentioned in the preceding verses of Judges 10.
What does Judges 10:2 teach about leadership?
Judges 10:2 emphasizes the significance of leadership in guiding a community. It shows that a faithful leader can have a lasting impact on the people they serve, helping them navigate challenges and maintain their faith. The verse reminds us of the importance of honoring and remembering those who lead us.
Why is the burial place mentioned in Judges 10:2 important?
The mention of Shamir as the burial place in Judges 10:2 signifies respect for the judge's contributions to Israel. It highlights the cultural practice of honoring leaders after their death, serving as a reminder for the community to remember and reflect on the legacy left behind by their leaders.
What can we learn from the 23 years of leadership in Judges 10:2?
The 23 years of leadership in Judges 10:2 illustrates the dedication and commitment required in positions of authority. It teaches us that effective leadership often involves perseverance through challenges and a long-term vision for the community's well-being.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.