These opening verses have a clear central theme: the Lord, mentioned eight times, and his constant influence on an individual’s conscience. One could think it’s an overpowering presence that leaves people with no choice or independence. However, we shouldn’t view it that way. In ancient times, and especially within Israelite culture, everything was attributed to the divine. We understand that God respects human autonomy and freedom at all costs; it’s only at the level of consciousness that God intervenes, sometimes in a way that might seem exaggerated.