Thank you, Jess! As I’ve read with intent to understand how stories apply to me versus trying to understand the stories based on my cultural biases (etc), that’s really helped open my mind to being taught by the Holy Ghost. The other perspective that really shifted my understanding of scripture stories is to find ways that the story typifies Christ. I’ve seen aspects of His life I’d never considered come to life as I’ve read the scriptures (even the most horrible stories) with the intent to understand the Savior’s mission, human experience, and sacrifice more fully. I hope you find the same assurance as you wrestle with understanding the stories as well.

So glad this post was able to help you, Jess!

The counter to the book of Judges is the book of Ruth. Boaz would have been one of the “Judges” of Israel at that time, but he is a good man with good values, not a monster. So, the book of Ruth is kept separate from Judges. It shows not all of the Israelites we wholly corrupt.

When you read the book of Judges, you have to take it as the equivalent of modern tabloids, where the most salacious stories lead. The book of Judges in no way represents average daily life among Israelites any more than trashy tabloids represents average daily life among us.