Topical Bible: Gideon: Avenges Himself Upon the People of Succoth

◄ Gideon: Avenges Himself Upon the People of Succoth ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, chosen by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. His account is a testament to God's power working through human weakness and faith. One of the notable episodes in Gideon's life is his encounter with the people of Succoth, which highlights themes of justice, leadership, and divine retribution.

Context and Background

The narrative of Gideon's vengeance upon the people of Succoth is found in Judges 8. After the miraculous victory over the Midianites with just 300 men, Gideon pursued the fleeing kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. Exhausted yet determined, Gideon and his men crossed the Jordan River in pursuit of these Midianite leaders.

Request for Aid

As Gideon and his men reached Succoth, they were weary and in need of sustenance. Gideon requested bread for his troops from the leaders of Succoth, saying, "Please give loaves of bread to the people who are following me, for they are exhausted, and I am pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian" (Judges 8:5). However, the leaders of Succoth refused to assist Gideon, questioning his success and doubting his ability to capture the Midianite kings. Their response was one of skepticism and fear, as they were likely concerned about retribution from the Midianites if Gideon failed.

Gideon's Vow of Retribution

In response to their refusal, Gideon vowed to return and punish the leaders of Succoth once he had captured Zebah and Zalmunna. He declared, "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). This vow underscores the seriousness with which Gideon viewed their lack of support, interpreting it as a betrayal not only to him but to the cause of Israel's deliverance.

Fulfillment of the Vow

After successfully capturing the Midianite kings, Gideon returned to Succoth to fulfill his promise. He captured a young man from Succoth and obtained from him the names of the city's leaders. Gideon then confronted the elders, reminding them of their earlier refusal to aid him. True to his word, he took the elders of the city and disciplined them with thorns and briers, as a public act of retribution and justice (Judges 8:16).

Significance

Gideon's actions against Succoth serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and support within the community of God's people. The refusal of Succoth to aid Gideon was not merely a personal affront but a failure to stand with God's chosen deliverer in a time of need. This episode illustrates the consequences of fear and unbelief, contrasting the faith and courage that Gideon exemplified.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Gideon's retribution against Succoth can be seen as an extension of divine justice. The leaders of Succoth, by refusing to support Gideon, aligned themselves against God's purposes. Gideon's actions, therefore, were not merely personal vengeance but a fulfillment of divine justice against those who opposed God's deliverance of Israel. This narrative reinforces the biblical theme that God empowers and vindicates those who act in faith and obedience to His will.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 8:14-17
And caught a young man of the men of Succoth, and inquired of him: and he described to him the princes of Succoth, and the elders thereof, even three score and seventeen men.
Nave's Topical Index