# empowered him

This phrase means that Yahweh helped Othniel to have and develop the qualities he needed to be a great leader.

# he judged Israel

Here "judged" means he led the people of Israel.

# he went out to war

Here "he" refers to Othniel who represents himself and the army of Israel. Alternate translation: "Othniel and the Israelite soldiers went to fight against the army of Cushan-Rishathaim" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

# Yahweh gave him victory over Cushan-Rishathaim king of Aram

Here "Cushan-Rishathaim" represents his army. Alternate translation: "Yahweh helped the Israelite army defeat the army of Cushan-Rishathaim king of Aram" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

# The hand of Othniel

Here "hand" is a metonym for army. Alternate translation: "The army of Othniel" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])