The "Judges of Israel" were leaders in ancient Israel who served as military commanders, arbiters of disputes, and spiritual guides. They emerged during a time when the Israelites were settling in the Promised Land, following the death of Joshua. Each judge was raised up by God to deliver the Israelites from oppression and to restore order. The period of the judges is documented in the biblical book of Judges. Notable judges include Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. Their stories illustrate the challenges faced by the Israelites and the cyclical pattern of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that characterized this era.