Judges 8:10

Now Zebah and Zalmunna were in Karkor with their army of about fifteen thousand men--all that were left of the armies of the people of the east. A hundred and twenty thousand swordsmen had already fallen.

Study Bible

Now Zebah and Zalmunna were in Karkor
Zebah and Zalmunna were Midianite kings, representing the oppressive force against Israel during the time of the Judges. Karkor is believed to be a location east of the Jordan River, possibly in the region of modern-day Jordan. This area was significant as it was outside the immediate territory of Israel, indicating the extent of Gideon's pursuit. The presence of these kings in Karkor suggests a strategic retreat to regroup and fortify their position.

with their army of about fifteen thousand men
The number fifteen thousand indicates a significant reduction in their forces, highlighting the effectiveness of Gideon's earlier attacks. This remnant represents the survivors of a much larger force, emphasizing the scale of the conflict. The Midianites, along with their allies, were known for their large, nomadic armies that would invade and plunder Israel, as seen in previous chapters.

all that were left of the armies of the people of the east
The "people of the east" refers to a coalition of Midianites, Amalekites, and other nomadic tribes. These groups were known for their raids on Israel, often described as numerous as locusts. The phrase underscores the comprehensive defeat they suffered at the hands of Gideon, fulfilling God's promise to deliver Israel from their oppressors.

A hundred and twenty thousand swordsmen had already fallen
This figure illustrates the magnitude of the victory God granted to Gideon and the Israelites. The defeat of such a vast number of swordsmen underscores the miraculous nature of the victory, as Gideon's initial force was only three hundred men. This event is a testament to God's power and faithfulness, as He delivered Israel despite overwhelming odds. The fall of these swordsmen also serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God's chosen people, a theme consistent throughout the Old Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zebah and Zalmunna
These were the kings of Midian, who were leading the remaining forces of their army. Their names are often associated with oppression and opposition to Israel.

2. Karkor
This is the location where Zebah and Zalmunna were encamped with their remaining troops. It signifies a place of temporary refuge for the Midianite kings.

3. The Army of the People of the East
This refers to the coalition of forces from Midian and other eastern tribes that had been oppressing Israel. The army was significantly reduced from its original size.

4. Fifteen Thousand Men
This number represents the remnant of the Midianite forces, highlighting the significant defeat they had already suffered.

5. A Hundred and Twenty Thousand Swordsmen
This figure indicates the number of Midianite soldiers who had already been killed, underscoring the magnitude of the victory God had given to Israel through Gideon.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Battle
The overwhelming defeat of the Midianites demonstrates God's control over the outcomes of battles. Believers can trust in God's power to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

The Consequences of Opposing God
Zebah and Zalmunna's defeat serves as a warning against opposing God's people and purposes. It reminds us of the ultimate futility of resisting God's will.

Faith and Obedience Lead to Victory
Gideon's success was rooted in his obedience to God's unconventional strategy. This teaches us the importance of trusting God's guidance, even when it defies human logic.

The Remnant Principle
The survival of a small remnant of the Midianite army illustrates the biblical theme of a remnant, which can apply to God's preservation of a faithful group amidst widespread judgment.

God's Deliverance Brings Peace
The reduction of the Midianite threat paved the way for peace in Israel. This points to the peace that comes from God's deliverance in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the defeat of the Midianite army in Judges 8:10 illustrate God's power and sovereignty? Can you think of a situation in your life where you have seen God's power at work?

2. What lessons can we learn from the account of Gideon about trusting and obeying God, even when His instructions seem unconventional?

3. How does the concept of a "remnant" in Judges 8:10 relate to other biblical themes of preservation and faithfulness? Can you identify other instances in the Bible where God preserves a remnant?

4. In what ways does the account of Zebah and Zalmunna serve as a warning against opposing God's plans? How can this apply to our lives today?

5. How does the peace that followed the defeat of the Midianites in Judges 8:10 reflect the peace that God offers us through deliverance? How can we experience this peace in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 7
The preceding chapter details how God used Gideon and a small army to defeat the Midianites, emphasizing God's power and the importance of faith and obedience.

Psalm 83
This psalm mentions Zebah and Zalmunna, praying for God to deal with Israel's enemies as He did with these Midianite kings, highlighting God's justice and protection.

Isaiah 9:4
This verse references the defeat of Midian as a symbol of liberation and deliverance, connecting the historical event to God's ongoing work of salvation.