This bible commentary traces the reception of
Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists.
- A bible commentary focusing on The Book of Judges, best known for the tale of Samson and Delilah, but full of many other rich and colourful stories.
- Treats the text story by story, making it accessible to non-specialists,
- Considers the stories of women in Judges, including Deborah, Jael, who slew Sisera, and Jephthah's daughter, sacrificed by her father.
- Traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists.
- Illustrates how ideology and the social location of readers have shaped the way the book has been read.
- Discloses a long history of debate over the roles of women and the use of force, as well as Christian prejudice against Jews and 'Orientals'.
- Offers a window onto the use of the Bible in the Western world.