Topical Bible: Abdon: A Judge of Israel, in the Time of the Judges

◄ Abdon: A Judge of Israel, in the Time of the Judges ►

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Introduction:
Abdon, a lesser-known figure in the biblical narrative, served as one of the judges of Israel during the tumultuous period of the Judges. His account is briefly mentioned in the Book of Judges, where he is noted for his leadership and familial legacy. Abdon's tenure as a judge is characterized by peace and prosperity, although the details of his rule are sparse.

Biblical Account:
The account of Abdon is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 12:13-15. According to the Berean Standard Bible , the passage reads:

"After him, Abdon son of Hillel, from Pirathon, judged Israel. He had forty sons and thirty grandsons, who rode on seventy donkeys. And he judged Israel eight years. Then Abdon son of Hillel, from Pirathon, died and was buried in Pirathon in the land of Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites."

Background and Family:
Abdon was the son of Hillel and hailed from Pirathon, a town located in the territory of Ephraim. His family is noted for its size and wealth, as evidenced by his forty sons and thirty grandsons, who rode on seventy donkeys. The mention of donkeys is significant, as it indicates a measure of wealth and status during that era. The large number of offspring also suggests that Abdon's family held considerable influence and power.

Role as a Judge:
Abdon served as a judge of Israel for eight years. The role of a judge during this period was multifaceted, often involving military leadership, legal arbitration, and spiritual guidance. While the biblical text does not provide specific details about Abdon's actions or achievements, his leadership is implied to have been a time of stability and continuity for Israel.

Geographical Context:
Abdon's hometown, Pirathon, is situated in the hill country of Ephraim, an area associated with the tribe of Ephraim. The mention of the "hill country of the Amalekites" suggests that this region may have been contested or influenced by neighboring groups, although the text does not elaborate on any specific conflicts during Abdon's judgeship.

Legacy:
Abdon's legacy is primarily recorded through his extensive family and the peaceful period attributed to his leadership. His burial in Pirathon signifies his lasting connection to his hometown and the region of Ephraim. Despite the brevity of his account, Abdon's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of each judge's contribution to the history of Israel during this formative period.

Conclusion:
The biblical account of Abdon, though brief, highlights a period of relative peace and prosperity under his judgeship. His large family and the wealth indicated by their possession of donkeys suggest a man of significant status and influence. Abdon's account, like many in the Book of Judges, reflects the cyclical nature of leadership and the diverse figures who played roles in guiding the nascent nation of Israel.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 12:13-15
And after him Abdon the son of Hillel, a Pirathonite, judged Israel.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

City of God
... and Joshua the Son of Nun, of the Judges, and Thereafter of ... Chapter 2.--At What Time
the Promise of God Was ... the Land of Canaan, Which Even Carnal Israel Got in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/city of god/

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... only a name behind them, such as Shamgar, Ibzan, Tola, Elon, and Abdon; indeed,
some ... that, together with Eli, he was made to figure as Judge of all Israel. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm