This verse gives the final details on Ibzan. It follows the same pattern used to describe all the other minor judges.

Then Ibzan died: Then renders the Hebrew waw conjunction, which may be translated “And,” “So,” or “And so.” The connector used here should not give the impression that “as soon as” the seven years were completed he died. Unlike the other judges’ stories, Ibzan is not renamed at the end of this unit as “Ibzan of Bethlehem.” This clause may be rendered “And then Ibzan also died.” It is important that the same pattern be used throughout. Revised English Bible says “and when he died,” which is acceptable if all other such references follow the same pattern.

And was buried at Bethlehem: For was buried, see verse 12.7. The name Bethlehem forms an envelope around this short section. In many cultures it is considered a blessing to die and be buried where one was born.

Quoted with permission from Zogbo, Lynell and Ogden, Graham S. A Handbook on Judges. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2019. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .