Othniel was the first judge of Israel mentioned in the book of Judges, raised up by God to deliver His people from foreign oppression. He was the nephew and son-in-law of Caleb, one of the faithful spies from the time of Moses.
Othniel is introduced in Judges 1:13 when he captured Kirjath Sepher and received Caleb’s daughter, Achsah, as his wife. This early mention shows his courage and initiative. But his greater role comes in Judges 3:9–11:
“When the children of Israel cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the children of Israel, who delivered them: Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.”
Israel had fallen into idolatry and was oppressed by Cushan-Rishathaim, king of Mesopotamia, for eight years. In response to their repentance, God empowered Othniel. Judges 3:10 says:
“The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel. He went out to war, and the Lord delivered Cushan-Rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand…”
Othniel’s leadership brought rest and peace to the land for forty years, until his death.
Othniel represents the pattern seen throughout the book of Judges: sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. He is a picture of faithful obedience and divine empowerment. As the first judge, he sets the standard for how God raises up leaders to save His people when they turn back to Him.
Though little is said about his life beyond this account, Othniel is remembered as a man of valor, used by God to restore justice and peace.
