Judges 10:1

After the time of Abimelech, a man of Issachar, Tola son of Puah, the son of Dodo, rose up to save Israel. He lived in Shamir, in the hill country of Ephraim.

Study Bible

After the time of Abimelech
This phrase sets the chronological context following the tumultuous rule of Abimelech, who was a self-appointed king and the son of Gideon (Judges 9). Abimelech's reign was marked by violence and treachery, including the massacre of his seventy brothers. His death brought a period of instability, highlighting the need for a new leader to restore order and deliver Israel from its troubles.

A man of Issachar
Issachar was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its wisdom and understanding of the times (1 Chronicles 12:32). The tribe's territory was located in the northern part of Israel, which suggests that Tola's leadership extended beyond his immediate tribal boundaries, indicating a unifying role among the tribes.

Tola son of Puah, the son of Dodo
Tola's genealogy is briefly mentioned, which is common in biblical narratives to establish legitimacy and heritage. The names Puah and Dodo are not widely referenced elsewhere, but their inclusion signifies the importance of family lineage in Israelite society. Tola's name means "worm" or "scarlet," possibly symbolizing humility or redemption.

Rose up to save Israel
This phrase indicates Tola's role as a judge, a leader raised by God to deliver Israel from oppression. The cyclical pattern in Judges shows Israel falling into sin, facing oppression, crying out to God, and being delivered by a judge. Tola's rise signifies divine intervention and the restoration of peace and order.

He lived in Shamir
Shamir's exact location is uncertain, but it is believed to be in the hill country of Ephraim. This region was central and strategic, providing a suitable base for leadership and governance. Shamir's mention highlights the geographical spread of Tola's influence.

In the hill country of Ephraim
Ephraim was a prominent tribe in Israel, often associated with leadership and strength (Genesis 48:19). The hill country provided natural fortification and was a significant area for Israelite settlement. Tola's residence here underscores his role in unifying and leading the tribes from a central location, reflecting the importance of Ephraim in Israel's history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tola
A judge of Israel who rose to deliver the nation after the time of Abimelech. His name means "worm" or "scarlet," which can symbolize humility or redemption.

2. Puah
Tola's father, mentioned to establish Tola's lineage. The name Puah is also associated with one of the Hebrew midwives in Exodus, indicating a heritage of service.

3. Dodo
Tola's grandfather, further establishing his family line. The name Dodo means "beloved" or "uncle."

4. Shamir
The place where Tola lived and presumably judged Israel. Located in the hill country of Ephraim, it signifies a place of strength and strategic importance.

5. Ephraim
A significant tribe in Israel, known for its central location and influence. The hill country of Ephraim was a place of refuge and leadership.

Teaching Points

God's Provision of Leaders
Tola's rise as a judge demonstrates God's continual provision of leaders for His people, even after times of turmoil. We can trust God to raise leaders in our communities and churches.

The Importance of Humility
Tola's name, meaning "worm" or "scarlet," can remind us of the importance of humility in leadership. True leadership in God's kingdom often involves serving others selflessly.

Strategic Positioning
Tola's residence in Shamir, in the hill country of Ephraim, highlights the importance of being strategically positioned for God's purposes. We should seek to be where God can use us most effectively.

Legacy and Heritage
The mention of Tola's lineage underscores the importance of family heritage and legacy. We should strive to leave a godly legacy for future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Tola's role as a judge about God's faithfulness in providing leadership for His people?

2. How does Tola's humble background and name inspire us to approach leadership and service in our own lives?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are strategically positioned, like Tola in Shamir, to be used by God in our communities?

4. How does the mention of Tola's lineage encourage us to consider the legacy we are leaving for future generations?

5. Reflecting on the broader account of Judges, how does Tola's account fit into the cycle of sin, repentance, and deliverance, and what does this teach us about God's grace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 2:16
This verse speaks of God raising judges to deliver Israel, providing a broader context for Tola's role as a deliverer.

1 Samuel 12:11
Samuel recounts the judges, including Tola, emphasizing God's faithfulness in providing leaders for Israel.

Hebrews 11:32
Although Tola is not mentioned by name, this chapter highlights the faith of judges and leaders, connecting to the theme of deliverance and faithfulness.