Topical Encyclopedia Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, was a prominent judge of Israel, renowned for his leadership and faith in God, which led to the deliverance of Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. His account is primarily recorded in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 through 8. Gideon's death marks the end of a significant era in Israel's history, characterized by a temporary return to peace and fidelity to God.After Gideon's remarkable victory over the Midianites with a mere 300 men, he continued to lead Israel for forty years during a period of relative peace. Despite his initial reluctance and humble beginnings, Gideon became a mighty warrior and a respected leader. However, his later years were marred by certain actions that had lasting consequences for Israel. Following his military successes, Gideon declined the offer to become king, stating, "I will not rule over you, nor will my son. The LORD shall rule over you" (Judges 8:23). Despite this noble declaration, Gideon made an ephod from the gold he collected as spoils of war, which became a snare to him and his family. The ephod was placed in his hometown of Ophrah, and "all Israel prostituted themselves by worshiping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his household" (Judges 8:27). Gideon's death is recorded in Judges 8:32: "Later, Gideon son of Joash died at a ripe old age and was buried in the tomb of his father Joash in Ophrah of the Abiezrites" . His death marked the end of an era of peace, as the Israelites quickly turned away from God after his passing. Judges 8:33-34 notes, "As soon as Gideon died, the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals. They made Baal-berith their god and did not remember the LORD their God who had delivered them from the hands of all their enemies on every side" . Gideon's legacy was further complicated by the actions of his son Abimelech, born to his concubine in Shechem. Abimelech sought power and declared himself king, leading to a violent and tumultuous period for Israel. This turn of events highlighted the fragile nature of Israel's faithfulness and the challenges of leadership in a time when "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). Gideon's death serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of Israel's faithfulness and apostasy during the time of the judges. His life and leadership, while marked by great faith and victory, also underscore the importance of steadfast devotion to God and the dangers of idolatry and complacency. Nave's Topical Index Judges 8:32And Gideon the son of Joash died in a good old age, and was buried in the sepulcher of Joash his father, in Ophrah of the Abiezrites. Nave's Topical Index Library But on the Death of Gideon, his Son Abimelech... That the Judges who Succeeded Gideon Made War with the Adjoining ... Gideon's Altar Gideon and the Fleece. Gideon's Brave Band Lo! Death for us on Satan, Inflicts Vengeance The Story of Gideon and his Three Hundred Soldiers How the Midianites and Other Nations Fought against the Israelites ... Judges Blessed is He who Atoned Your Sins, that Ye Might Receive his Body ... Resources What are some biblical examples of dream interpretation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about strength? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Peniel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gideon: Angel Attests the Call To, by Miracle Gideon: Avenges Himself Upon the People of Succoth Gideon: He Destroys the Altar of Baal, and Builds One to the Lord Gideon: Israel Desires to Make Him King; he Refuses Gideon: Leads an Army Against and Defeats the Midianites Gideon: Makes an Ephod Which Becomes a Snare to the Israelites Gideon: Promises of the Lord To Gideon: Reproaches the Ephraimites for not Joining in the Campaign Against the Midianites Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Gideon Related Terms |
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