The World English Bible (WEB): Judges

After Joshua’s death the new generation of Israel asks God who will lead them against the Canaanites. He points to Judah, who rallies his brother Simeon and together they launch a swift campaign, striking down foes at Bezek and capturing the ruthless warlord Adoni‑Bezek. Their victories spread, and Judah presses on into the hill country, confronting the giants of Hebron and claiming towns such as Debir, while Caleb promises his daughter Achsah as a reward for the triumph.

The early chapters also introduce personal moments amid the conflict: Achsah negotiates for water springs, and Othniel, Caleb’s younger brother, secures his own marriage through bravery. Meanwhile, other tribes experience mixed success—some drive out the occupants of their allotted cities, while others coexist with lingering Canaanite settlements. These opening scenes set a pattern of bold leadership, tribal rivalry, and the fragile balance between conquest and coexistence that shapes the rest of the narrative.