Tola: A Judge of Israel

Tola, a lesser-known biblical figure, served as a judge of Israel for twenty-three years following the chaotic rule of Abimelech. His brief mention in Judges 10:1-2 provides limited information, but his leadership marked a period of relative peace.

Quick Facts:

1. Name: Tola
2. Tribe: Issachar
3. Father: Puah (also called Dodo)
4. Role: Judge of Israel
5. Duration of Judgeship: 23 years
6. Successor: Jair
7. Location: Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim
8. Biblical Reference: Judges 10:1-2

Tola’s story is nestled within the Book of Judges, a period characterized by cycles of Israelite faithfulness and rebellion. Following Abimelech’s violent and oppressive reign, Tola’s judgeship signifies a return to stability and order. His lineage from the tribe of Issachar and his father Puah (also known as Dodo) highlights the diverse tribal leadership among the judges of Israel.

Tola ruled from Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim, an area central to Israel’s geography and politics at the time. This location might have played a significant role in maintaining peace and order during his judgeship. Though the biblical account of Tola is brief, his twenty-three-year tenure suggests he was a capable leader who provided a period of respite for the Israelites.

The lack of dramatic stories or military exploits associated with Tola may indicate that his leadership was marked more by governance and administration than by warfare. This contrasts with many other judges whose stories are filled with battles and deliverance from oppression.

Tola’s judgeship, though not elaborately described, contributes to the overall narrative of the Book of Judges, demonstrating the ebb and flow of Israel’s faithfulness and the continual need for God-appointed leaders to guide and stabilize the nation.