Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 to 8, where he is depicted as a judge and military leader of Israel. His account is marked by divine intervention, military strategy, and acts of vengeance and justice that reflect the turbulent period of the Judges.

Background

Gideon was called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. The Angel of the LORD appeared to him while he was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites, declaring, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior" (Judges 6:12). Despite his initial hesitance and requests for signs, Gideon obeyed God's call, tearing down the altar of Baal and leading a reduced army of 300 men to victory over the Midianites with unconventional tactics involving trumpets, jars, and torches (Judges 7:16-22).

Vengeance on Succoth and Penuel

Following the defeat of the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna, Gideon pursued them across the Jordan River. During this pursuit, he requested provisions from the men of Succoth and Penuel, but both towns refused to assist him. In response, Gideon vowed retribution, saying to the men of Succoth, "When the LORD has delivered Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with thorns and briers from the wilderness" (Judges 8:7). Similarly, he warned the men of Penuel, "When I return in triumph, I will tear down this tower" (Judges 8:9).

After capturing the Midianite kings, Gideon returned to Succoth and Penuel to fulfill his promises. He disciplined the elders of Succoth with thorns and briers and demolished the tower of Penuel, killing the men of the city (Judges 8:16-17). These acts of vengeance were seen as a form of justice for their refusal to support God's chosen deliverer and the Israelite cause.

Execution of Zebah and Zalmunna

Gideon's pursuit culminated in the capture of Zebah and Zalmunna. When confronted, the kings admitted to having killed Gideon's brothers at Tabor. In response, Gideon declared, "As surely as the LORD lives, if you had let them live, I would not kill you" (Judges 8:19). He then commanded his young son Jether to execute them, but the boy hesitated out of fear. Consequently, Gideon himself carried out the execution, fulfilling the role of avenger of blood, a concept rooted in the Mosaic Law that allowed for the nearest relative to avenge the death of a family member (Judges 8:20-21).

Significance

Gideon's actions against Succoth, Penuel, and the Midianite kings highlight the themes of divine justice and retribution. His account illustrates the importance of faithfulness to God's chosen leaders and the consequences of failing to support the deliverance of Israel. Gideon's vengeance is portrayed as a necessary act to uphold justice and maintain the integrity of the Israelite community during a time of widespread apostasy and moral decline.