Judges 8:8

And he went up thence to Penuel, and spake unto them likewise: and the men of Penuel answered him as the men of Succoth had answered [him].

And he went up {H5927} thence to Penuel {H6439}, and spake {H1696} unto them likewise {H2063}: and the men {H582} of Penuel {H6439} answered {H6030} him as the men {H582} of Succoth {H5523} had answered {H6030} him.

From there he went up to P'nu'el and made the same request, and the people of P'nu'el gave the same answer as those of Sukkot.

From there he went up to Penuel and asked the same from them, but the men of Penuel gave the same response as the men of Succoth.

And he went up thence to Penuel, and spake unto them in like manner; and the men of Penuel answered him as the men of Succoth had answered.

Commentary

Judges 8:8 continues the narrative of Gideon's relentless pursuit of the Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, after his miraculous victory. This verse highlights the further refusal of support from Israelite towns in Transjordan, specifically Penuel, mirroring the earlier rejection by Succoth.

Context of Judges 8:8

Following his decisive, divinely-assisted victory over the main Midianite army, Gideon, with his weary 300 men, continued to pursue the two remaining Midianite kings. His men were exhausted and hungry, having fought and chased the enemy across considerable distances. As they passed through Israelite towns in the Transjordan region, Gideon sought provisions and assistance. Just prior to this verse, Gideon had approached the elders of Succoth for food, but they refused, fearing retaliation from the Midianite kings and doubting Gideon's success. Judges 8:8 shows Gideon arriving at Penuel, another Israelite city, making the same plea for sustenance, only to be met with the same uncooperative response.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Lack of Israelite Unity and Support: This verse starkly reveals the disunity and self-preservation instincts among some Israelite communities. Rather than supporting their deliverer, Gideon, and participating in the fight against their oppressors, the men of Penuel prioritized their own safety, just as the elders of Succoth had done. This lack of solidarity hindered the broader national effort to secure freedom.
  • Perseverance in Leadership: Despite the internal opposition and lack of aid from his own people, Gideon demonstrates remarkable perseverance. He does not give up his pursuit of the Midianite kings, illustrating his unwavering commitment to his divine mission, even when faced with significant obstacles.
  • Consequences of Disobedience/Fear: The refusal of Penuel, like Succoth, stemmed from fear of the Midianites and a lack of faith in God's appointed leader. This fear ultimately led to severe consequences, as Gideon had vowed retribution upon his return, which is later fulfilled in Judges 8:17.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "spake unto them likewise" emphasizes the identical nature of Gideon's request and the subsequent refusal by the men of Penuel, mirroring the interaction with Succoth. The name Penuel (or Peniel) itself means "face of God," a significant name from Jacob's encounter with God in Genesis 32:30. The irony is poignant: a city named "face of God" refused to support God's chosen deliverer in his mission.

Practical Application

Judges 8:8 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and support within a community or body, especially when facing common challenges. It encourages us to:

  • Support Righteous Endeavors: We are called to support those who are faithfully pursuing God's will, even when it requires personal sacrifice or overcoming fear.
  • Persevere Through Opposition: Like Gideon, leaders and individuals on a divine mission may face opposition not only from external enemies but also from within their own ranks. This verse teaches the value of steadfastness.
  • Beware of Self-Preservation Over Divine Purpose: Prioritizing personal comfort or safety over God's greater plan can lead to negative consequences and missed blessings.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 32:30 (4 votes)

    And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.

  • Genesis 32:31 (4 votes)

    And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh.

  • 1 Kings 12:25 (4 votes)

    ¶ Then Jeroboam built Shechem in mount Ephraim, and dwelt therein; and went out from thence, and built Penuel.