Judges 3:9
New International Version
But when they cried out to the LORD, he raised up for them a deliverer, Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, who saved them.

New Living Translation
But when the people of Israel cried out to the LORD for help, the LORD raised up a rescuer to save them. His name was Othniel, the son of Caleb’s younger brother, Kenaz.

English Standard Version
But when the people of Israel cried out to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for the people of Israel, who saved them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

Berean Standard Bible
But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD, He raised up Othniel son of Caleb’s younger brother Kenaz as a deliverer to save them.

King James Bible
And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

New King James Version
When the children of Israel cried out to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for the children of Israel, who delivered them: Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

New American Standard Bible
But the sons of Israel cried out to the LORD, and the LORD raised up a deliverer for the sons of Israel to set them free, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

NASB 1995
When the sons of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for the sons of Israel to deliver them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

NASB 1977
And when the sons of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for the sons of Israel to deliver them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

Legacy Standard Bible
Then the sons of Israel cried to Yahweh, and Yahweh raised up a savior for the sons of Israel to save them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

Amplified Bible
But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD [for help], the LORD raised up a man to rescue the people of Israel, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.

Christian Standard Bible
The Israelites cried out to the LORD. So the LORD raised up Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s youngest brother, as a deliverer to save the Israelites.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The Israelites cried out to the LORD. So the LORD raised up Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s youngest brother, as a deliverer to save the Israelites.

American Standard Version
And when the children of Israel cried unto Jehovah, Jehovah raised up a saviour to the children of Israel, who saved them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

Contemporary English Version
The Israelites begged the LORD for help, and so he chose Othniel to rescue them. Othniel was the son of Caleb's younger brother Kenaz.

English Revised Version
And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a saviour to the children of Israel, who saved them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Then the people of Israel cried out to the LORD for help. The LORD sent a savior to rescue them. It was Othniel, son of Caleb's younger brother Kenaz.

Good News Translation
Then the Israelites cried out to the LORD, and he sent someone to free them. This was Othniel, the son of Caleb's younger brother Kenaz.

International Standard Version
When the Israelis cried out to the LORD, the LORD raised up Othniel son of Caleb's younger brother Kenaz, to deliver them, and he did.

Majority Standard Bible
But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD, He raised up Othniel son of Caleb?s younger brother Kenaz as a deliverer to save them.

NET Bible
When the Israelites cried out for help to the LORD, he raised up a deliverer for the Israelites who rescued them. His name was Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

New Heart English Bible
When the children of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a savior to the children of Israel, who saved them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

Webster's Bible Translation
And when the children of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

World English Bible
When the children of Israel cried to Yahweh, Yahweh raised up a savior to the children of Israel, who saved them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and the sons of Israel cry to YHWH, and YHWH raises a savior to the sons of Israel, and he saves them—Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother;

Young's Literal Translation
and the sons of Israel cry unto Jehovah, and Jehovah raiseth a saviour to the sons of Israel, and he saveth them -- Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother;

Smith's Literal Translation
And the sons of Israel will cry to Jehovah, and Jehovah will raise up a saviour to the sons of Israel, and he will save them, Othniel, son of Kenaz, Caleb's brother younger than he.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And they cried to the Lord, who raised them up a saviour, and delivered them, to wit, Othoniel the son of Cenez, the younger brother of Caleb:

Catholic Public Domain Version
And they cried out to the Lord, who raised up for them a savior, and he freed them, namely, Othniel, the son of Kenaz, a younger brother of Caleb.

New American Bible
But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD, he raised up a savior for them, to save them. It was Othniel, son of Caleb’s younger brother Kenaz.

New Revised Standard Version
But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for the Israelites, who delivered them, Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And when the children of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for the children of Israel, and they were delivered by Othniel, the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the children of Israel called to LORD JEHOVAH, and LORD JEHOVAH raised up a Savior for the children of Israel, and Athneil, son of Qanaz, the brother of Kalab who was younger than he, delivered them
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a saviour to the children of Israel, who saved them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And the children of Israel cried to the Lord; and the Lord raised up a saviour to Israel, and he saved them, Gothoniel the son of Kenez, the brother of Chaleb younger than himself.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Othniel
8Then the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He sold them into the hand of Cushan-rishathaim king of Aram-naharaim, and the Israelites served him eight years. 9But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD, He raised up Othniel son of Caleb’s younger brother Kenaz as a deliverer to save them. 10The Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he became Israel’s judge and went out to war. And the LORD delivered Cushan-rishathaim king of Aram into the hand of Othniel, who prevailed against him.…

Cross References
Exodus 3:7-10
The LORD said, “I have indeed seen the affliction of My people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their oppressors, and I am aware of their sufferings. / I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. / And now the cry of the Israelites has reached Me, and I have seen how severely the Egyptians are oppressing them. ...

Nehemiah 9:27
So You delivered them into the hands of enemies who oppressed them, and in their time of distress they cried out to You. From heaven You heard them, and in Your great compassion You gave them deliverers who saved them from the hands of their enemies.

Psalm 106:44-45
Nevertheless He heard their cry; He took note of their distress. / And He remembered His covenant with them, and relented by the abundance of His loving devotion.

1 Samuel 12:10-11
Then they cried out to the LORD and said, ‘We have sinned, for we have forsaken the LORD and served the Baals and Ashtoreths. Now deliver us from the hands of our enemies, that we may serve You.’ / So the LORD sent Jerubbaal, Barak, Jephthah, and Samuel, and He delivered you from the hands of your enemies on every side, and you dwelt securely.

2 Kings 13:4-5
Then Jehoahaz sought the favor of the LORD, and the LORD listened to him because He saw the oppression that the king of Aram had inflicted on Israel. / So the LORD gave Israel a deliverer, and they escaped the power of the Arameans. Then the people of Israel lived in their own homes as they had before.

Isaiah 19:20
It will be a sign and a witness to the LORD of Hosts in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, He will send them a savior and defender to rescue them.

2 Chronicles 14:11
Then Asa cried out to the LORD his God: “O LORD, there is no one besides You to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on You, and in Your name we have come against this multitude. O LORD, You are our God. Do not let a mere mortal prevail against You.”

2 Chronicles 20:9
‘If disaster comes upon us—whether sword or judgment, plague or famine—we will stand before this temple and before You, for Your Name is in this temple. We will cry out to You in our distress, and You will hear us and save us.’

Psalm 34:17
The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles.

Psalm 107:13
Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress.

Acts 13:20
All this took about 450 years. After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet.

Hebrews 11:32-34
And what more shall I say? Time will not allow me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets, / who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, / quenched the raging fire, and escaped the edge of the sword; who gained strength from weakness, became mighty in battle, and put foreign armies to flight.

Romans 10:13
for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it.

2 Corinthians 1:10
He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. In Him we have placed our hope that He will yet again deliver us,


Treasury of Scripture

And when the children of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

Judges 3:15
But when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised them up a deliverer, Ehud the son of Gera, a Benjamite, a man lefthanded: and by him the children of Israel sent a present unto Eglon the king of Moab.

Judges 4:3
And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD: for he had nine hundred chariots of iron; and twenty years he mightily oppressed the children of Israel.

Judges 6:7
And it came to pass, when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD because of the Midianites,

raised up

Judges 2:16
Nevertheless the LORD raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them.

delivered.

Judges 1:13
And Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.

Jump to Previous
Caleb's Children Cried Deliver Delivered Deliverer Israel Kenaz Othniel Oth'ni-El Prayer Raised Saved Saveth Savior Saviour Younger
Jump to Next
Caleb's Children Cried Deliver Delivered Deliverer Israel Kenaz Othniel Oth'ni-El Prayer Raised Saved Saveth Savior Saviour Younger
Judges 3
1. The nations which were left to prove Israel
5. By communion with them they commit idolatry
8. Othniel delivered them from Chushan-Rishathaim
12. Ehud from Eglon
31. and Shamgar from the Philistines














But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the cyclical pattern of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that characterizes the Book of Judges. The Hebrew word for "cried out" is "זָעַק" (za'aq), which conveys a deep, desperate plea for help. This cry is not merely a call for assistance but a profound acknowledgment of their need for divine intervention. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' recognition of their inability to save themselves from the consequences of their disobedience. It is a moment of turning back to God, reminiscent of the broader biblical theme of repentance and redemption.

He raised up Othniel son of Kenaz
The phrase "He raised up" indicates divine initiative and intervention. The Hebrew root "קוּם" (qum) suggests an act of establishing or empowering. Othniel, whose name means "God is my strength," is chosen by God to be a deliverer. The mention of "son of Kenaz" situates Othniel within the tribe of Judah, highlighting the importance of tribal affiliations in Israel's history. Othniel's role as a judge underscores the recurring theme of God using individuals to accomplish His purposes, often raising leaders from unexpected places to fulfill His covenant promises.

Caleb’s younger brother, as a deliverer to save them
Caleb's younger brother, Othniel, is introduced as a "deliverer," a term that in Hebrew is "מוֹשִׁיעַ" (moshia), meaning savior or rescuer. This term foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Christ, the Messiah. The familial connection to Caleb, a figure known for his faithfulness and courage (as seen in the Book of Joshua), adds a layer of historical and spiritual significance. It suggests a continuity of faith and valor within the family line, serving as an inspiration for the Israelites to trust in God's provision and deliverance.

The Spirit of the LORD came upon him
This phrase signifies the empowerment of Othniel by the Holy Spirit, a recurring motif in the Old Testament where the Spirit equips individuals for specific tasks. The Hebrew word "רוּחַ" (ruach) for "Spirit" denotes breath or wind, symbolizing life and divine power. This divine empowerment is crucial for Othniel's success as a judge, emphasizing that true deliverance and leadership come not from human strength but from God's Spirit. It serves as a reminder of the necessity of divine presence and guidance in overcoming challenges and fulfilling God's purposes.

and he became Israel’s judge and went to war
Othniel's role as a judge involves both judicial and military leadership. The Hebrew term "שָׁפַט" (shaphat) for "judge" encompasses governance, decision-making, and delivering justice. His going to war signifies the active role of a judge in defending and liberating the people from oppression. This dual role highlights the comprehensive nature of God's deliverance, addressing both spiritual and physical needs. It reflects the biblical principle that God raises leaders who are both wise and courageous, capable of guiding His people through times of trial and conflict.

The LORD gave Cushan-rishathaim king of Aram into the hands of Othniel, who prevailed against him
The phrase "The LORD gave" underscores God's sovereignty and active involvement in the affairs of nations. The defeat of Cushan-rishathaim, whose name means "double wickedness," represents the triumph of righteousness over evil. The victory is attributed to divine intervention rather than human prowess, reinforcing the theme that success comes from reliance on God. This historical account serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and delivering His people when they turn back to Him in repentance and faith.

(9) Cried unto the Lord.--"In the time of their trouble, when they cried unto Thee, Thou heardest them from heaven; and according to Thy manifold mercies Thou gavest them saviours" (Nehemiah 9:27). "Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them out of their distresses" (Psalm 107:13; see, too, Psalm 26:5; Psalm 78:34; Psalm 106:44).

A deliverer.--Heb., moshia; LXX., "a saviour." (Comp. Luke 1:69; Acts 13:23.) The same word as is used for the judges in Hebrews 9:27. . . .

Verse 9. - A deliverer. Hebrew, Saviour, as ver. 15 (see Nehemiah 9:27). Othniel, etc. Mentioned Judges 1:13; Joshua 15:17, and 1 Chronicles 4:13, where he is placed under "the sons of Kenaz," and seems to be the father of Hathath and Meonothai. According to Judith 6:15, he had a descendant, Chabris, living in the time of Holofernes. The Hebrew, though grammatically it favours the view that Othniel was the brother of Caleb, does not absolutely exclude the rendering that Kenaz was his brother, and so Othniel his nephew. Compare Jeremiah 32:7, where the words "thine uncle" apply to Shallum, not to Hanameel, as is clear from ver. 8. And as the chronology seems to make it impossible that Othniel should be Caleb's brother, since Caleb was eighty-five years old at the time of Othniel's marriage, and Othniel therefore could not be less than fifty-five, an improbable age for his marriage; and since, again, Othniel could not well have been less than eighty at Joshua's death, which, allowing only ten years for the elders, and reckoning the eight years for Chushan's dominion, would make him ninety-eight when he was raised up to deliver Israel, it is a lesser difficulty to take Othniel as the nephew of Caleb, by understanding the words, Caleb's younger brother, to apply to Kenaz. But perhaps the least objectionable escape from the difficulty is to take the phrase in its most natural grammatical sense, but to understand the word brother in its wider and very common sense of kinsman or fellow-tribesman. They were both sons of Kenaz, or Kenizzites. Caleb was the head of the tribe, and Othniel was next to him in tribal dignity, and his junior in age, but probably succeeded to the chieftainship on Caleb's death. This would leave the exact relationship between Caleb and Othniel uncertain.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
But when the Israelites
בְנֵֽי־ (ḇə·nê-)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

cried out
וַיִּזְעֲק֤וּ (way·yiz·‘ă·qū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 2199: To shriek, to announce, convene publicly

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

the LORD,
יְהוָ֔ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

[He]
יְהוָ֥ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

raised up
וַיָּ֨קֶם (way·yā·qem)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6965: To arise, stand up, stand

Othniel
עָתְנִיאֵ֣ל (‘ā·ṯə·nî·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6274: Othniel -- a hero in Israel

son
לִבְנֵ֥י (liḇ·nê)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Kenaz,
קְנַ֔ז (qə·naz)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7073: Kenaz -- an Edomite, also two Israelites

Caleb’s
כָלֵ֖ב (ḵā·lêḇ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3612: Caleb -- a son of Jephunneh and sent by Moses to spy out the land

youngest
הַקָּטֹ֥ן (haq·qā·ṭōn)
Article | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6996: Small, young, unimportant

brother,
אֲחִ֥י (’ă·ḥî)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 251: A brother, )

as a deliverer
מוֹשִׁ֛יעַ (mō·wō·šî·a‘)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3467: To be open, wide, free, to be safe, to free, succor

to save
וַיּֽוֹשִׁיעֵ֑ם (way·yō·wō·šî·‘êm)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular | third person masculine plural
Strong's 3467: To be open, wide, free, to be safe, to free, succor

[them].
בֶּן־ (ben-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121: A son


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OT History: Judges 3:9 When the children of Israel cried (Jd Judg. Jdg)
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