Judges 2:23

Judges 2:23 Meaning and Explanation

Therefore the LORD left those nations, without driving them out hastily; neither delivered he them into the hand of Joshua.

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

So the LORD let those nations remain, not driving them out quickly, and He had not handed them over to Joshua either.

What Does Judges 2:23 Mean?

The chapter closes by summing up the situation: the LORD left those nations in place, choosing not to drive them out all at once, just as He had not given them all into Joshua's hand earlier. The stage is now set for the cycle of judges that follows.

God's timing is His own, and He works according to a wisdom that sees the whole. What looks like delay is purpose. The nations left behind would test, refine, and shape Israel's story for generations. Even in a chapter heavy with failure, the last word belongs to the sovereign Lord who is patiently working out His designs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Judges 2:23

What does Judges 2:23 mean?

So the LORD let those nations remain, not driving them out quickly, and He had not handed them over to Joshua either.

Keep Studying Judges 2

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.