Topical Bible: Polygamy: Gideon

◄ Polygamy: Gideon ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, serving as a judge and military leader of Israel. His account is primarily found in Judges 6-8. Gideon is best known for his role in delivering Israel from the oppression of the Midianites, but his life also provides insight into the practice of polygamy during the period of the Judges.

Gideon's Family and Marital Practices

Gideon's family life is briefly detailed in Judges 8:29-32. After his military victories and the subsequent peace he brought to Israel, Gideon returned to his home in Ophrah. The text states, "He had seventy sons of his own, for he had many wives" (Judges 8:30). This indicates that Gideon practiced polygamy, a common custom among some of the leaders and patriarchs of Israel during this era.

The practice of polygamy in Gideon's time was not explicitly condemned in the Old Testament, though it often led to familial strife and complications. Gideon's numerous marriages resulted in a large family, which was seen as a sign of wealth and blessing. However, the narrative also hints at potential issues arising from such arrangements, as seen in the subsequent events involving his sons.

Abimelech and the Consequences of Polygamy

One of the most significant consequences of Gideon's polygamous lifestyle was the rise of his son Abimelech. Born to Gideon's concubine in Shechem, Abimelech sought power after his father's death. Judges 9 recounts how Abimelech killed his seventy brothers, the sons of Gideon, to establish himself as king over Shechem. This tragic event underscores the potential for discord and rivalry among the offspring of polygamous unions.

Abimelech's violent quest for power and the resulting turmoil in Israel highlight the complexities and challenges that could arise from polygamous family structures. While Gideon's polygamy contributed to his legacy of numerous descendants, it also set the stage for internal conflict and bloodshed.

Cultural Context and Biblical Perspective

In the cultural context of ancient Israel, polygamy was an accepted practice among certain leaders and was often associated with social status and influence. However, the biblical narrative frequently illustrates the difficulties and moral challenges associated with polygamous relationships. Gideon's account, like those of other biblical figures such as Abraham, Jacob, and David, reflects the tension between cultural practices and the ideal of monogamous marriage as later affirmed in the New Testament (e.g., Matthew 19:4-6).

Gideon's life and the events following his death serve as a narrative that invites reflection on the implications of polygamy, both in terms of personal family dynamics and broader societal impact. The account of Gideon and his family provides a window into the complexities of leadership, legacy, and the human condition as portrayed in the biblical text.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 8:30
And Gideon had three score and ten sons of his body begotten: for he had many wives.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Index of Subjects. Abel, 124, 136, 193, 414.
... Felix, [572]437, [573]439. Felix (another), [574]439. Fire, saved as by,
[575]186. Firmus, [576]260. Fleece, Gideon's, [577]248. ...
/.../augustine/anti-pelagian writings/index of subjects abel 124.htm