Judg 2:3 | NETfull | STEP | At that time I also warned you, ‘If you disobey, I will not drive out the Canaanites before you. They will ensnare you and their gods will lure you away.’”

Judges 2:3

3 At that time I also warned you, ^{▼▼Heb “And I also said.” The use of the perfect tense here suggests that the messenger is recalling an earlier statement (see Josh 23:12–13). However, some translate, “And I also say,” understanding the following words as an announcement of judgment upon those gathered at Bokim.} ‘If you disobey, ^{▼▼ The words “If you disobey” are supplied in the translation for clarity. See Josh 23:12–13.} I will not drive out the Canaanites ^{▼▼Heb “them”; the referent (the Canaanites) has been specified in the translation for clarity.} before you. They will ensnare you ^{▼▼ The meaning of the Hebrew word צִדִּים (tsiddim) is uncertain in this context. It may be related to an Akkadian cognate meaning “snare.” If so, a more literal translation would be “they will become snares to you.” Normally the term in question means “sides,” but this makes no sense here. On the basis of Num 33:55 some suggest the word for “thorns” has been accidentally omitted. If this word is added, the text would read, “they will become [thorns] in your sides” (cf. NASB, NIV, NLT).} and their gods will lure you away.’” ^{▼▼ Heb “their gods will become a snare to you.”}