Book of Judges - Chapter 2 - Verse 17

The verse serves as a warning against the Israelites' tendency to stray from the path set by their ancestors and to follow after false gods. The judges were appointed to lead the people in accordance with the commandments of the Lord, but the people did not heed their advice and instead turned to idolatry. The phrase "went a whoring after other gods" is a metaphor for their unfaithfulness and infidelity towards God. The Israelites quickly abandoned the teachings of their forefathers and disobeyed the commandments of the Lord, leading to their downfall. This verse emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to God's commandments and not being swayed by the temptations of other gods. By highlighting the consequences of their disobedience, the verse serves as a cautionary tale for future generations to remain steadfast in their faith and devotion to the Lord.

In this verse, the people are described as not hearkening to their judges and instead turning away to worship false gods. The word "hearken" is significant in this context as it implies not just hearing, but also obeying and following through with the instructions given. By choosing to engage in idolatry and worship other gods, the people are not only disobeying the commandments of the Lord but also abandoning the path of righteousness set by their ancestors. The term "whoring" is used metaphorically to illustrate the unfaithfulness and spiritual adultery of the people in turning away from the one true God. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness and the importance of remaining steadfast in following the commandments of the Lord.