Topical Encyclopedia Cushan-Rishathaim is a figure mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 3:8-10. He is identified as the king of Mesopotamia who oppressed the Israelites during the period of the Judges. His name, which can be translated as "Cushan of double wickedness," suggests a reputation for great evil or oppression, reflecting the severity of his rule over Israel.Biblical Context: The narrative of Cushan-Rishathaim is set during a time when the Israelites repeatedly fell into cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. After the death of Joshua and the elders who outlived him, the Israelites began to do evil in the sight of the LORD, serving the Baals and Asherahs, and forsaking the God of their fathers. As a result, God allowed them to be oppressed by foreign powers as a form of judgment and to bring them to repentance. Judges 3:8 states, "Then the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He sold them into the hands of Cushan-Rishathaim king of Mesopotamia, and the Israelites served him for eight years." This period of subjugation was a direct consequence of Israel's disobedience and idolatry. Deliverance through Othniel: The oppression under Cushan-Rishathaim lasted for eight years until the Israelites cried out to the LORD for deliverance. In response, God raised up Othniel, the son of Kenaz and the younger brother of Caleb, as a judge to deliver them. Judges 3:9-10 records, "But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD, He raised up Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, as a deliverer to save them. The Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel. He went out to war, and the LORD delivered Cushan-Rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand, so that Othniel prevailed against him." Othniel's victory over Cushan-Rishathaim marked the first of many deliverances recorded in the Book of Judges, setting a pattern for the cycles of sin and redemption that characterize this period in Israel's history. The Spirit of the LORD empowering Othniel signifies divine intervention and approval, highlighting that the deliverance was not by human might alone but by God's sovereign will. Historical and Theological Significance: Cushan-Rishathaim's role in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the mercy available through repentance. His oppression of Israel underscores the reality of divine judgment, while the subsequent deliverance through Othniel illustrates God's faithfulness to His covenant people despite their unfaithfulness. The account of Cushan-Rishathaim also emphasizes the importance of godly leadership. Othniel, as a judge, exemplifies the qualities of faith and reliance on God's Spirit, setting a standard for future leaders in Israel. This narrative encourages believers to seek God's guidance and strength in times of trial and to remain faithful to His commandments. Concordance Cu'shan-rishatha'Im (2 Occurrences)Judges 3:8 Judges 3:10 Thesaurus Cu'shan-rishatha'Im (2 Occurrences)Cu'shan-rishatha'Im. Cushan-rishathaim, Cu'shan-rishatha'Im. Cushi . Multi-Version Concordance Cu'shan-rishatha'Im (2 Occurrences). ... /c/cu'shan-rishatha'im.htm - 7k Mesopota'mia (7 Occurrences) Cushan-rishathaim (2 Occurrences) Cushi (7 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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