Judges 8:7

Commentary on Judges 8:7 (KJV)

Judges 8:7 captures a moment of intense resolve and stern warning from Gideon to the uncooperative men of Succoth. Having just achieved a miraculous victory over the Midianites with only 300 men, Gideon was in hot pursuit of the remaining Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. When he requested provisions for his exhausted army from the leaders of Succoth, they scoffed at him, refusing to support his divinely appointed mission.

Context

This verse is set during Gideon's pursuit of the two Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, who were still at large after his initial, decisive victory. Gideon's army, though small, had been supernaturally empowered to defeat the vast Midianite forces. Exhausted but determined, Gideon sought provisions from the Israelite towns of Succoth and Penuel. Their refusal was not merely a lack of hospitality but a profound disrespect and lack of faith in God's ongoing work of delivering Israel from oppression. Gideon's response here is a fierce vow of retribution upon his return, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to completing the task God had given him.

Key Themes

• Consequences of Disloyalty: The verse highlights the severe consequences of disloyalty and lack of support for God's work and His chosen instruments. The men of Succoth prioritized their immediate safety and comfort over participating in the Lord's victory, earning them a harsh promise of judgment. This illustrates a principle seen throughout scripture, where refusing to aid God's people or His cause can lead to severe repercussions.
• Gideon's Resolve and Faith: Despite the exhaustion of his men and the contempt of his own countrymen, Gideon remains resolute. His declaration, "when the LORD hath delivered Zebah and Zalmunna into mine hand," underscores his absolute faith that God would grant him the victory. This certainty fuels his determination to punish those who hindered the divine mission.
• Severity of Ancient Justice: The promised punishment—to "tear your flesh with the thorns of the wilderness and with briers"—was a brutal and humiliating act, reflecting the harsh realities of justice in that era. It signifies a painful, public degradation, often used as a form of capital punishment or severe torture.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "tear your flesh" comes from the Hebrew word דּוּשׁ (dush), which literally means "to thresh" or "to trample." This suggests a punishment akin to the process of threshing grain, where stalks are broken and beaten. Coupled with "thorns of the wilderness and with briers" (קוֹצִים - qotsim and בַּרְקָנִים - barqanim), it vividly portrays a cruel and painful method of physical retribution, likely involving dragging or pressing the bodies of the uncooperative leaders over thorny bushes, causing lacerations.

Related Scriptures

Gideon's vow is not an idle threat. Its fulfillment is graphically described later in the chapter, serving as a powerful demonstration of the consequences of their actions. Judges 8:16 records Gideon making good on his promise, taking the elders of Succoth and teaching them a severe lesson with the thorns and briers. This act underscores the seriousness of their refusal to support the Lord's work.

Practical Application

Judges 8:7 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting God's work and His people, even when it requires sacrifice or seems challenging. Spiritual apathy or outright refusal to contribute to God's kingdom efforts can have significant, though perhaps not physically violent, consequences. It encourages believers today to be actively engaged in supporting ministries, showing hospitality, and participating in the advancement of the gospel, rather than hindering it through indifference or lack of faith. It also highlights the steadfastness required in leadership, mirroring Gideon's unwavering commitment to God's mission despite opposition from within his own people.