שופטים, פרק ב׳, פסוק ז׳

The era led by Joshua and the elders who outlived him stands as a spiritual golden age. During this time, the Israelites maintained their loyalty to God, driven by a deep sense of gratitude and a commitment to spiritual perfection. This steadfast devotion was preserved by the elders, who had been direct eyewitnesses to the historical miracles in the wilderness and during the conquest of the land [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Because they had seen these wonders with their own eyes, they possessed the clarity to teach the nation, guide them in justice, and direct their hearts toward serving God [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

Despite the positive influence of the elders, there is a subtle criticism directed at them. While they were granted long days, they were not blessed with long years. This limitation was a divine punishment because they were lazy in properly eulogizing Joshua after his passing [רש״י].

The limited duration of the nation's faithfulness serves as a warning for what was to come. Immediately following the death of the elders, the people quickly forgot God's deeds and turned toward evil [מצודת דוד]. This spiritual collapse did not happen overnight, but was a gradual process fueled by negative desires. At first, the Israelites committed minor sins in secret, developing a mistaken belief that God resided only in the highest heavens and did not watch over the earth. Seeking a more immediate and visible form of supervision, they turned to the forces of nature and the stars. Rooted in ingratitude toward the One who had delivered them from Egypt, their departure from God steadily deepened. Ultimately, this led to public idolatry, a complete abandonment of their faith, and actions that angered Him [אלשיך].