The children of Israel did that which was evil in the sight of Yahweh, and forgot Yahweh their God, and served the Baals and the Asheroth.
"The children of Israel served Cushan-rishathaim eight years"  (Judges 3:8).  "This reference is obscure, there being no other reference to this power anywhere in the Bible."[9]  The cyclical pattern that predominates in Judges is clearly visible here.  First, there is ease and prosperity for Israel.  Then they forget God and serve the pagan gods.  God becomes angry with them and delivers them into hardship and oppression.  God pities them and raises up a saviour in the person of a distinguished "judge." Again Israel enjoys prosperity until that judge dies, and then the cycle is repeated.