Judges 9:31

KJV

And he sent messengers unto Abimelech privily, saying, Behold, Gaal the son of Ebed and his brethren be come to Shechem; and, behold, they fortify the city against thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he sent {H7971} messengers {H4397} unto Abimelech {H40} privily {H8649}, saying {H559}, Behold, Gaal {H1603} the son {H1121} of Ebed {H5651} and his brethren {H251} be come {H935} to Shechem {H7927}; and, behold, they fortify {H6696} the city {H5892} against thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

He sent messengers to Avimelekh in Tormah with this message: "Ga'al the son of a slave and his brothers have come to Sh'khem, and they're inciting the city against you.

Berean Standard Bible

So he covertly sent messengers to Abimelech to say, “Look, Gaal son of Ebed and his brothers have come to Shechem and are stirring up the city against you.

American Standard Version

And he sent messengers unto Abimelech craftily, saying, Behold, Gaal the son of Ebed and his brethren are come to Shechem; and, behold, they constrain the city to take part against thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Judges 9:31 captures a critical moment of escalating tension and political intrigue within Shechem, revealing Zebul, Abimelech's officer, secretly dispatching messengers to warn Abimelech about the arrival and hostile intentions of Gaal, the son of Ebed, and his kinsmen. This clandestine communication underscores the shifting loyalties and deep-seated conspiracy brewing against Abimelech's violent and illegitimate rule, setting the stage for the imminent confrontation that will further destabilize the region and ultimately contribute to Abimelech's downfall.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the tumultuous narrative of Abimelech's reign, immediately following Gaal's public defiance and boastful challenge to Abimelech's authority in [Judges 9:26-29](/judges/9-26 "Judges 9:26-29 - Gaal's Defiance"). Prior to this, Abimelech had brutally murdered his seventy half-brothers to seize power, leaving only Jotham alive, who then pronounced a prophetic curse upon Abimelech and the people of Shechem in [Judges 9:7-20](/judges/9-7 "Judges 9:7-20 - Jotham's Parable and Curse"). Zebul, the city's governor appointed by Abimelech, has been observing Gaal's growing influence and the Shechemites' wavering allegiance. Verse 31 marks Zebul's decisive action to inform Abimelech, leading directly into the military preparations and subsequent battle between Abimelech and Gaal described in [Judges 9:32-45](/judges/9-32 "Judges 9:32-45 - Abimelech's Victory over Gaal"). This sequence highlights the rapid progression from political unrest to open warfare, fulfilling the chaotic trajectory foretold by Jotham.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the Judges was characterized by political fragmentation, inter-tribal conflict, and a cyclical pattern of apostasy, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Shechem, an ancient and strategically important city in central Canaan, often served as a significant religious and political center, as seen in Joshua's covenant renewal there in [Joshua 24:1-28](/joshua/24 "Joshua 24 - Covenant Renewal at Shechem"). Its location made it a crossroads for trade and military movements. The concept of a "king" in Israel was still nascent and largely rejected by figures like Gideon, Abimelech's father ([Judges 8:22-23](/judges/8-22 "Judges 8:22-23 - Gideon Refuses Kingship")). Abimelech's self-proclaimed kingship was a violent usurpation, not a divinely appointed monarchy, and thus lacked true legitimacy and stability. The internal strife within Shechem, marked by shifting loyalties and the rise of local strongmen like Gaal, reflects the broader societal instability and moral decay prevalent during this era, where "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" ([Judges 21:25](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - No King in Israel")).

* **Key Themes:** Judges 9:31 powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent in the book of Judges and specifically in the narrative of Abimelech. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **unstable leadership and the consequences of illegitimate power**. Abimelech's reign, founded on bloodshed and ambition rather than divine appointment or justice, is inherently fragile, constantly threatened by internal dissent and external challenges. Secondly, the verse highlights **treachery and shifting loyalties**, as the Shechemites, who initially crowned Abimelech, now entertain Gaal's rebellion, while Zebul navigates this treacherous political landscape by secretly maintaining his allegiance to Abimelech. Thirdly, the mention of "fortifying the city" introduces the theme of **imminent conflict and divine retribution**, as Gaal's preparations directly set the stage for the fulfillment of Jotham's curse, where fire would consume both Abimelech and the men of Shechem ([Judges 9:20](/judges/9-20 "Judges 9:20 - Jotham's Curse")). This specific act of fortification is a clear signal of active rebellion and a direct challenge to Abimelech's authority, ensuring a violent resolution.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Privily (Hebrew, _bassēter_):** This adverb literally means "in secret," "secretly," or "hidden." Its use here emphasizes the clandestine nature of Zebul's communication with Abimelech. In a highly volatile political environment, open communication could be dangerous, indicating the deep-seated distrust and fear pervading Shechem. Zebul's secret message highlights the espionage and counter-espionage at play, revealing how power struggles often operate beneath the surface through covert intelligence and hidden agendas.
* **Fortify (Hebrew, _məṣārp̄îm_ from צָרַף, _ṣārap_):** While the KJV translates this as "fortify," the Hebrew verb _ṣārap_ primarily means "to refine," "to test," or "to purify," often used in the context of metals. However, in a military or defensive context, it can imply strengthening, making secure, or preparing for defense, possibly through digging trenches or reinforcing walls. This suggests Gaal and his men were not merely occupying Shechem but actively making it ready for a siege or direct confrontation, indicating a serious and aggressive posture against Abimelech. The KJV's "fortify" captures the practical implication of their actions in this military context, signifying active preparation for armed resistance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he sent messengers unto Abimelech privily, saying,"**: This opening clause identifies the sender (Zebul, though not named until the following verse, [Judges 9:36](/judges/9-36 "Judges 9:36 - Zebul's Role")), the recipient (Abimelech), and the method of communication (messengers sent secretly). The secrecy ("privily") is crucial, indicating the sensitive and dangerous nature of the information being conveyed, as well as Zebul's cautious loyalty to Abimelech amidst the rising rebellion. It sets a tone of political intrigue and impending crisis.
* **"Behold, Gaal the son of Ebed and his brethren be come to Shechem;"**: This clause reveals the core intelligence: the arrival of Gaal and his kinsmen in Shechem. Gaal, previously introduced as a charismatic leader who stirred up the Shechemites against Abimelech ([Judges 9:26-29](/judges/9-26 "Judges 9:26-29 - Gaal's Provocation")), is now confirmed to be physically present and active within the city. The mention of "his brethren" suggests a significant retinue or a loyal faction, indicating a consolidated force rather than just an individual agitator, thus posing a more substantial threat.
* **"and, behold, they fortify the city against thee."**: This final clause describes the immediate and alarming action being taken by Gaal and his men. Their "fortification" of Shechem is a clear act of defiance and preparation for war. It signifies an active military posture, transforming the city into a stronghold against Abimelech. This intelligence is the direct catalyst for Abimelech's subsequent military response, confirming that Gaal's challenge is not mere rhetoric but a tangible, strategic threat to Abimelech's control over Shechem.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several literary devices to heighten its dramatic impact and convey its underlying themes. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as Zebul's urgent message about Gaal's fortification directly sets the stage for the violent confrontation that immediately follows, signaling the inevitable clash between Abimelech and Gaal. The use of "privily" introduces an element of **intrigue and espionage**, highlighting the clandestine nature of political maneuvering and the hidden dangers within the power struggle. There is also a subtle **irony** at play: Abimelech, who seized power through brutal force and treachery, now finds himself on the receiving end of a similar challenge, facing a rebellion from within the very city that crowned him. This mirrors the cyclical nature of violence and retribution that pervades the book of Judges.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judges 9:31 serves as a vivid illustration of the consequences of unrighteous leadership and the volatile nature of power gained through human ambition rather than divine appointment. Abimelech's rule, born of bloodshed and sustained by coercion, is inherently unstable, constantly threatened by internal dissent and external challenges. This verse highlights the theme of divine retribution, as the seeds of violence sown by Abimelech in murdering his brothers are now ripening into a harvest of rebellion and conflict, fulfilling Jotham's prophetic curse. The Shechemites, who initially supported Abimelech's usurpation, now find themselves entangled in a web of treachery and warfare, demonstrating how complicity in unrighteousness ultimately leads to chaos and suffering for all involved. This narrative underscores God's moral order, where actions have consequences, and justice, though sometimes delayed, will ultimately prevail.

* [Judges 9:56](/judges/9-56 "Fulfillment of Jotham's Curse")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Pride Goes Before a Fall")
* [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Sowing and Reaping")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Judges 9:31, though set in a distant historical context, offers profound lessons for contemporary life. It reminds us that leadership built on self-interest, manipulation, and violence is inherently unstable and ultimately self-destructive. The constant threat of betrayal and the need for clandestine communication reflect a society devoid of true peace and trust. For us, this serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity in leadership, whether in our homes, communities, or workplaces. It challenges us to consider the foundations upon which we build our influence and authority. Are we seeking power for personal gain, or are we striving to serve others with humility and justice? The instability of Shechem under Abimelech's rule highlights the futility of relying on human strength and cunning alone, urging us to seek wisdom and guidance from a higher source.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the "privily" aspect of Zebul's message speak to the nature of power and trust (or lack thereof) in our own contexts?**
* **What are the long-term consequences of gaining influence or position through unethical or violent means, as seen in Abimelech's story?**
* **How can we discern true loyalty from opportunistic alliances in our relationships and communities?**
* **In what ways might we be "fortifying" ourselves against righteous principles or divine authority in our lives?**

### FAQ

**What was the relationship between Zebul, Abimelech, and Gaal?**

Answer: Zebul was Abimelech's officer or governor in Shechem, entrusted with managing the city on Abimelech's behalf. Abimelech was the self-proclaimed king of Shechem, who had seized power through the brutal murder of his seventy half-brothers ([Judges 9:5](/judges/9-5 "Judges 9:5 - Abimelech's Usurpation")). Gaal, the son of Ebed, was a charismatic figure who arrived in Shechem and began to stir up rebellion against Abimelech, challenging his authority and gaining the support of the Shechemites ([Judges 9:26-29](/judges/9-26 "Judges 9:26-29 - Gaal's Provocation")). Zebul, observing Gaal's growing influence and the Shechemites' shifting loyalties, remained loyal to Abimelech and secretly informed him of Gaal's activities and plans, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict.

**Why was it important that Zebul sent messengers "privily"?**

Answer: The term "privily" (Hebrew: _bassēter_) signifies that Zebul's message was sent in secret, highlighting the treacherous and dangerous political climate in Shechem. Openly communicating with Abimelech about Gaal's rebellion would have put Zebul's life at risk, as Gaal had significant support within the city, and the Shechemites were already disaffected with Abimelech's rule. This secrecy underscores the deep-seated distrust and political intrigue that characterized Abimelech's reign, where loyalty was fragile and betrayal was a constant threat. It also shows Zebul's shrewdness in navigating a highly volatile situation to maintain his allegiance to Abimelech without immediately exposing himself to Gaal's wrath.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The chaotic and violent reign of Abimelech, marked by usurpation, treachery, and constant conflict, stands in stark contrast to the peaceful and righteous reign of Jesus Christ. Abimelech's ambition led to bloodshed and instability, as seen in the brewing rebellion described in Judges 9:31, ultimately leading to his own destruction and the fulfillment of Jotham's curse ([Judges 9:56-57](/judges/9-56 "Judges 9:56-57 - Abimelech's Demise")). In contrast, Jesus, the true King, did not seize power through violence but came in humility, offering His life as a sacrifice ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humility")). His kingdom is not of this world, built on human strength and intrigue, but is a spiritual kingdom founded on truth, righteousness, and peace ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World"); [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")). While Abimelech's subjects sought to "fortify the city against" him, believers are called to find their ultimate security and "fortification" in Christ, who is our rock and our fortress ([Psalm 18:2](/psalm/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is My Rock"); [Hebrews 6:19](/hebrews/6-19 "Hebrews 6:19 - Hope as an Anchor")). Unlike Abimelech's brief and bloody rule, Christ's reign is eternal and brings true reconciliation and lasting peace to all who submit to Him ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prince of Peace"); [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.