The period of oppression by the Ammonites and Philistines is a significant era in the history of Israel, as recorded in the Book of Judges. This time of subjugation highlights the cyclical pattern of sin, servitude, supplication, and salvation that characterizes the narrative of the Judges. The oppression serves as a backdrop for the rise of notable judges who deliver Israel from its enemies.

Historical Context

Following the death of Abimelech, Israel once again fell into a pattern of idolatry and disobedience to the LORD. The Israelites forsook the God of their fathers and served the Baals and Ashtoreths, as well as the gods of Aram, Sidon, Moab, the Ammonites, and the Philistines (Judges 10:6). This apostasy provoked the LORD's anger, and He allowed the Israelites to be oppressed by their enemies.

The Ammonite Oppression

The Ammonites, descendants of Lot through his younger daughter (Genesis 19:38), were perennial adversaries of Israel. Their oppression is detailed in Judges 10:7-9, where it is recorded that the LORD "sold them into the hands of the Philistines and the Ammonites, who that year shattered and crushed them" (Judges 10:7-8). The Ammonites specifically targeted the tribes east of the Jordan, including Gilead, and extended their incursions into Judah, Benjamin, and Ephraim, causing great distress for eighteen years.

The Philistine Oppression

Simultaneously, the Philistines, a seafaring people from the Aegean region, exerted pressure on the Israelites. The Philistines were known for their military prowess and advanced iron weaponry, which posed a significant threat to the Israelites. Their oppression is mentioned alongside that of the Ammonites, indicating a dual-front struggle for Israel during this period.

Israel's Repentance and Cry for Deliverance

In their distress, the Israelites cried out to the LORD, acknowledging their sin and idolatry. Judges 10:10 records their plea: "We have sinned against You, for we have forsaken our God and served the Baals" . The LORD, in response, reminded them of past deliverances from various oppressors, including the Egyptians, Amorites, Ammonites, and Philistines, and expressed His reluctance to save them again due to their repeated unfaithfulness (Judges 10:11-14).

However, the Israelites persisted in their repentance, putting away foreign gods and serving the LORD. Moved by their misery, the LORD's compassion was kindled, and He prepared to deliver them once more (Judges 10:15-16).

The Rise of Jephthah

In response to the Ammonite threat, the elders of Gilead sought out Jephthah, a mighty warrior and the son of a harlot, who had been ostracized by his family. Jephthah's leadership and negotiation skills were instrumental in rallying the Israelites against the Ammonites. Empowered by the Spirit of the LORD, Jephthah led Israel to victory over the Ammonites, securing peace for a time (Judges 11:29-33).

The Philistine Threat and Samson

The Philistine oppression continued to plague Israel, setting the stage for the emergence of Samson, one of the most renowned judges. Samson's exploits against the Philistines are chronicled in Judges 13-16, where his feats of strength and his complex relationship with the Philistines are detailed. Despite his personal failings, Samson was used by God to begin the deliverance of Israel from Philistine domination (Judges 13:5).

The oppression by the Ammonites and Philistines underscores the consequences of Israel's disobedience and the enduring mercy of God, who raises up deliverers to rescue His people when they turn back to Him in repentance.