A judge from Bethlehem who led Israel for seven years (Judges 12:8-10). Scripture records his large family—thirty sons and thirty daughters—and his practice of arranging marriages for them outside his clan, bringing in thirty daughters-in-law as well. This detail suggests both his wealth (supporting such a household) and his diplomatic skills (forging alliances through marriage). He was buried in Bethlehem. Some traditions identify him with Boaz, though this remains speculative.