What is the context?
With the earlier generation gone, another rises that does not know the LORD or the works He had done for Israel. Their response shows what that means in practice: they forsake the God who rescued their fathers and turn to the Baals and Ashtoreths, worshiping the surrounding peoples’ gods.
The account presents this as a breach of loyalty, not simply a change in religious vocabulary. The God who brought them out of slavery had commanded their worship. Now He gives them over to enemies who plunder them, and they can no longer stand against those enemies. Their distress is described as the consequence He had warned of.
The passage does not tell us the history of every household or say that the people had never heard God’s name. It shows a generation whose inherited place in Israel is not matched by faithfulness to Israel’s God.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley understands their lack of knowing as the absence of serious, personal trust and attachment to God, rather than merely missing information. Henry also sees a connection between serving the nations’ gods and being handed over to the nations’ rulers: the allegiance they choose becomes bound up with their suffering.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
God had already connected remembering His rescue with teaching the next generation. Deuteronomy 6:4–9, 20–25 places His words within everyday family life. Psalm 78:1–8 describes passing on His works so that children will trust Him and keep His commands.
The purpose goes beyond preserving a story as family history. Jesus describes eternal life as knowing the Father and the One He sent (John 17:1–5). The contrast between generations helps us see why each generation needs a living response to God, with His word received in trust and obedience.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.