And when the LORD raised them up judges, then the LORD was with the judge, and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge: for it repented the LORD because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them.
When the LORD raised up judges to lead them, the LORD was with each judge and rescued the people from their enemies during the judge's entire lifetime. The LORD felt compassion for them because of their cries of suffering under those who oppressed and troubled them.
God is showing that He compassionately responds to His people's suffering by raising up leaders to deliver them when they cry out for help.
📚 Historical Context
This verse describes the repeating cycle during the period of the Judges (roughly 1200-1020 BC), after Israel had settled in the Promised Land but before they had kings. The Israelites would fall into sin, face oppression from neighboring peoples, cry out to God in their distress, and then God would raise up a judge (a military and spiritual leader) to deliver them.
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