And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.
Othniel the son of Kenaz was the leader and deliverer chosen by God to rule Israel, and his rule lasted forty years. That forty-year period began after Israel repented of sin. Under his judicious and beneficial control he suppressed idolatry, administered justice, and elevated morality and religion. Throughout those forty years the people remained faithful to the divine law.
Because of that faithfulness they enjoyed God's mercy, peace, and prosperity during his administration. His control ended with his death. When he died the Israelites relapsed into idolatry, repeating the cycle of backsliding and chastisement followed by confession and deliverance.
Othniel the son of Kenaz was the leader and deliverer chosen by God to rule Israel, and his rule lasted forty years. That forty-year period began after Israel repented of sin. Under his judicious and beneficial control he suppressed idolatry, administered justice, and elevated morality and religion. Throughout those forty years the people remained faithful to the divine law.
Because of that faithfulness they enjoyed God's mercy, peace, and prosperity during his administration. His control ended with his death. When he died the Israelites relapsed into idolatry, repeating the cycle of backsliding and chastisement followed by confession and deliverance.