In the biblical narrative, the concept of patriotism is often intertwined with loyalty to God's chosen leaders and the collective well-being of the Israelite nation. The inhabitants of Succoth and Penuel, however, provide a stark example of a lack of patriotism during a critical moment in Israel's history, as recorded in the Book of Judges.

Context and Background

The events concerning Succoth and Penuel occur during the time of Gideon, one of the judges raised by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, was called by God to lead a small army against the vast Midianite forces. Through divine intervention, Gideon achieved a miraculous victory, routing the Midianites with just 300 men.

The Incident with Succoth and Penuel

Following the initial victory, Gideon pursued the fleeing Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, to ensure the complete deliverance of Israel from their oppression. As Gideon and his men, exhausted yet determined, passed through the towns of Succoth and Penuel, they requested provisions to sustain their pursuit.

In Judges 8:5-6 , Gideon said to the men of Succoth, "Please give some loaves of bread to the troops who are following me, for they are exhausted, and I am pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian." However, the leaders of Succoth replied, "Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna already in your hands, that we should give bread to your army?"

Similarly, when Gideon approached the men of Penuel with the same request, they responded with the same lack of support and faith in Gideon's mission (Judges 8:8).

Analysis of Their Actions

The refusal of the inhabitants of Succoth and Penuel to assist Gideon and his men reveals a significant deficiency in their sense of national duty and loyalty. Their skepticism and unwillingness to support Gideon, despite his evident divine mandate and recent victory, highlight a lack of trust in God's deliverance and a failure to prioritize the collective good of Israel over their immediate self-interest.

From a conservative Christian perspective, this incident underscores the importance of supporting God-ordained leadership and the collective mission of God's people. The actions of Succoth and Penuel stand in contrast to the biblical ideal of patriotism, which involves a commitment to the welfare of the nation under God's guidance.

Consequences

Gideon's response to the lack of support from Succoth and Penuel was swift and decisive. Upon capturing Zebah and Zalmunna, he returned to these towns to hold them accountable for their actions. In Judges 8:16-17 , it is recorded that Gideon "took the elders of the city, and thorns of the wilderness and briers, and with them he taught the men of Succoth a lesson. He also pulled down the tower of Penuel and killed the men of the city."

These actions served as a stern reminder of the consequences of failing to support God's chosen deliverer and the broader mission of the nation. The narrative of Succoth and Penuel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-preservation at the expense of national solidarity and divine purpose.Judges 8:4-17
And Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing them.
Nave's Topical Index

What is the Valley of Succoth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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Questions about Places in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org

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