Judges 9:7

KJV

¶ And when they told [it] to Jotham, he went and stood in the top of mount Gerizim, and lifted up his voice, and cried, and said unto them, Hearken unto me, ye men of Shechem, that God may hearken unto you.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when they told {H5046} it to Jotham {H3147}, he went {H3212} and stood {H5975} in the top {H7218} of mount {H2022} Gerizim {H1630}, and lifted up {H5375} his voice {H6963}, and cried {H7121}, and said {H559} unto them, Hearken {H8085} unto me, ye men {H1167} of Shechem {H7927}, that God {H430} may hearken {H8085} unto you.

Complete Jewish Bible

When they told this to Yotam, he went and stood on top of Mount G'rizim and shouted, "Listen to me, you leaders of Sh'khem; then God will listen to you!

Berean Standard Bible

When this was reported to Jotham, he climbed to the top of Mount Gerizim, raised his voice, and cried out: “Listen to me, O leaders of Shechem, and may God listen to you.

American Standard Version

And when they told it to Jotham, he went and stood on the top of mount Gerizim, and lifted up his voice, and cried, and said unto them, Hearken unto me, ye men of Shechem, that God may hearken unto you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Judges 9:7 introduces Jotham, the youngest and sole surviving son of Gideon (Jerubbaal), as he strategically positions himself atop Mount Gerizim. From this elevated and historically significant vantage point, he lifts his voice to deliver a profound and urgent message to the men of Shechem. This verse serves as the dramatic prelude to Jotham's famous parable, a scathing indictment and prophetic warning against their treacherous act of anointing his half-brother, Abimelech, as king, highlighting the critical importance of heeding divine counsel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Judges 9:7 is a pivotal moment following a dark chapter in Israel's history. The preceding verses [Judges 9:1-6](/judges/9-1-6 "Judges 9:1-6 - Abimelech's Conspiracy and Massacre") detail Abimelech's ruthless ambition: he conspires with the men of Shechem, his mother's relatives, to murder his seventy half-brothers—the legitimate heirs of Gideon—on a single stone. Only Jotham, Gideon's youngest son, manages to escape this brutal massacre. Having established Abimelech as their king, the men of Shechem have effectively rejected the legacy of Gideon, who had famously refused kingship, declaring that the Lord alone should rule over Israel, as stated in [Gideon's refusal of kingship](/judges/8-23 "Judges 8:23 - Gideon Refuses Kingship"). Jotham's appearance on Mount Gerizim, immediately after Abimelech's coronation, sets the stage for his powerful and prophetic fable, which directly challenges Shechem's illegitimate choice and foreshadows the tragic consequences that will inevitably follow.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Shechem held immense historical and religious significance for Israel. It was here that Abraham first built an altar upon entering Canaan ([Genesis 12:6-7](/genesis/12-6-7 "Genesis 12:6-7 - Abraham's Altar at Shechem")), Jacob buried foreign gods ([Genesis 35:4](/genesis/35-4 "Genesis 35:4 - Jacob Buries Idols")), and Joshua renewed the covenant with Israel ([Joshua 24](/joshua/24 "Joshua 24 - Covenant Renewal at Shechem")). Mount Gerizim, paired with Mount Ebal, was the site where Israel was commanded to proclaim blessings and curses upon entering the land ([Deuteronomy 11:29](/deuteronomy/11-29 "Deuteronomy 11:29 - Blessings on Gerizim, Curses on Ebal")). Jotham's choice of Mount Gerizim was thus highly symbolic, a place associated with divine blessing and the Law, from which he would pronounce a warning that would ultimately lead to a curse. His elevated position ensured his voice would carry across the valley to the city, symbolizing the moral high ground from which he spoke against the treachery below.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several crucial themes that permeate the narrative of Judges 9 and resonate throughout the book of Judges. Foremost is the theme of **illegitimate authority and leadership**, contrasting Abimelech's self-appointed, violent kingship with God's intended rule. Jotham's address highlights the folly and danger of choosing a leader based on human ambition and treachery rather than divine appointment or righteous character. Another key theme is the **power of prophetic warning and the consequences of rejecting wisdom**. Jotham's plea to "hearken" underscores the critical importance of listening to wise counsel and divine warnings, implying that the men of Shechem's willingness to heed his words will determine God's response to them. This sets up the overarching theme of **divine justice and retribution**, as the subsequent events of Judges 9 vividly demonstrate the swift and severe consequences that befall those who rebel against God's order and establish unjust rule, ultimately leading to the destruction of both Abimelech and Shechem.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hearken (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** The Hebrew verb שָׁמַע (_shâmaʻ_) is far more profound than merely "to hear" with one's ears. It encompasses the ideas of listening attentively, understanding, obeying, and responding. When Jotham urges the men of Shechem to "Hearken unto me," he is not simply requesting their auditory attention but demanding their careful consideration, acceptance, and ultimately, their obedience to his message. The reciprocal phrase, "that God may hearken unto you," reinforces this dynamic, suggesting that God's willingness to respond to their future cries or prayers is directly contingent upon their present receptivity and obedience to the truth being declared. It implies a covenantal relationship where human responsiveness to divine truth elicits divine responsiveness.
* **Mount Gerizim (Hebrew, _har Gᵉrizîym'_):** The specific location from which Jotham speaks, הַר גְּרִזִים (_har Gᵉrizîym'_), is deeply significant. As noted in the context, this mountain was one of the two mountains (along with Mount Ebal) where the blessings for obedience to God's law were to be pronounced (Deuteronomy 27-28). The word _har_ (H2022) means "mountain" or "range of hills," often used figuratively for promotion. _Gᵉrizîym_ (H1630) is derived from a root meaning "cut up" or "rocky," describing the mountain's topography. By standing on Gerizim, Jotham symbolically invokes the covenant and its blessings, contrasting them with the curses that would inevitably follow Shechem's wicked actions. His choice of location imbues his message with prophetic authority, reminding the people of their foundational covenant obligations and the dire consequences of their deviation.
* **Men (Hebrew, _baʻal'_):** The word translated "men" in "ye men of Shechem" is בַּעַל (_baʻal_, H1167), which literally means "master" or "owner." When used in a construct phrase like "men of Shechem," it can denote "citizens" or "inhabitants" who are "masters" or "owners" of that place. This term carries a subtle irony here, as these "masters" of Shechem have just subjected themselves to the illegitimate rule of Abimelech, a "master" who will ultimately bring destruction upon them. It highlights their self-proclaimed authority and ownership, which stands in stark contrast to their actual spiritual and political subjugation to an ungodly leader.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when they told [it] to Jotham":** This opening clause establishes Jotham's awareness of the horrific events that have transpired—the murder of his brothers and the anointing of Abimelech. It implies that Jotham, though having escaped, was not oblivious to the political machinations and the great evil committed by Abimelech and the men of Shechem. This news serves as the catalyst for his courageous public address.
* **"he went and stood in the top of mount Gerizim":** Jotham's deliberate action of ascending Mount Gerizim is highly symbolic and strategic. It signifies his moral and spiritual elevation above the treachery below, providing him with a commanding physical position from which his voice could carry across the valley to the city of Shechem. This act is a dramatic and public declaration of his intent to confront the city's inhabitants.
* **"and lifted up his voice, and cried, and said unto them, Hearken unto me, ye men of Shechem":** This describes Jotham's powerful and urgent delivery. "Lifted up his voice and cried" (Hebrew: _qara'_) indicates a public, authoritative, and passionate declaration, not a quiet conversation. It is a prophetic utterance, a call for immediate and serious attention. The direct address, "ye men of Shechem," makes it clear that his message is specifically for those who have participated in the conspiracy and supported Abimelech's illegitimate rule. The imperative "Hearken unto me" is a demand for their full attention and obedience.
* **"that God may hearken unto you":** This concluding phrase reveals the conditional nature of divine favor and the reciprocal relationship between human obedience and God's responsiveness. Jotham warns that if they refuse to "hearken" to his righteous counsel, God will likewise refuse to "hearken" to their cries in their time of trouble. It is a profound theological statement, implying that their current choice to reject God's order and embrace wickedness will have direct and severe consequences for their future relationship with God, leading to judgment rather than blessing or deliverance.

#### Literary Devices
Judges 9:7 is rich with **Symbolism**. Jotham's choice to speak from **Mount Gerizim** is deeply symbolic, representing a place of divine blessing and covenant, from which he pronounces a warning that will lead to a curse. His elevated position also symbolizes his moral high ground over the treacherous actions of Abimelech and the men of Shechem. The act of "lifting up his voice and crying" is a form of **Rhetoric**, employing a dramatic, public, and urgent appeal designed to capture attention and convey the gravity of his message. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing** in this verse; Jotham's warning, particularly the reciprocal "that God may hearken unto you," subtly hints at the divine judgment that will inevitably fall upon Shechem and Abimelech, as detailed in the subsequent narrative. The very situation also presents a stark **Irony**: the men of Shechem, who should have been guided by the covenant principles associated with Gerizim, instead choose a ruthless, "worthless" king, setting themselves up for destruction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judges 9:7 powerfully articulates the biblical principle that rejecting righteous counsel and embracing ungodly leadership leads to divine judgment. Jotham's courageous stand on Mount Gerizim, a place associated with covenant blessings and curses, underscores the reciprocal nature of humanity's relationship with God: our willingness to "hearken" (listen and obey) God's truth directly impacts His willingness to "hearken" (respond with favor) to us. This passage serves as a stark reminder that true authority flows from God, and any attempt to establish power through violence, treachery, or human ambition, outside of God's design, is inherently illegitimate and destined for ruin. It highlights God's unwavering commitment to justice and His ultimate sovereignty over human affairs, even when humanity chooses paths of rebellion.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Curses for Disobedience")
* [Proverbs 1:24-31](/proverbs/1-24-31 "Wisdom's Call and Rejection")
* [1 Samuel 8:7](/1_samuel/8-7 "Israel Rejects God as King")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jotham's courageous act in Judges 9:7 is a profound call to discern and uphold righteous leadership, even when it is unpopular or dangerous. In a world often swayed by charisma, power, or self-interest, Jotham reminds us that true authority is rooted in integrity and divine alignment, not violence or manipulation. His plea to "hearken" is timeless, urging us to cultivate a posture of attentive listening and obedience to God's Word and the wise counsel He provides through His servants. Just as the men of Shechem faced dire consequences for ignoring Jotham's prophetic warning, we too are called to be diligent hearers and doers of God's Word ([James 1:22](/james/1-22 "James 1:22 - Be Doers of the Word")). This verse challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we quick to embrace popular but ungodly paths, or do we seek and submit to God's righteous principles? Do we have the courage to speak truth to power when necessary, or do we remain silent in the face of injustice? Our willingness to "hearken" to God's voice today determines His responsiveness to our cries tomorrow, shaping our personal and communal destinies.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I being called to "hearken" more attentively to God's voice or wise counsel?**
* **What are the potential "Mount Gerizims" in my life—places or positions from which I am called to speak truth, even if it is difficult or unpopular?**
* **How do I discern between legitimate, God-honoring leadership and illegitimate, self-serving authority in my community, church, or nation?**
* **What are the personal or communal consequences I have observed when God's warnings or wise counsel are ignored?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jotham choose Mount Gerizim to deliver his message?**

Answer: Jotham's choice of Mount Gerizim was highly strategic and symbolic. Geographically, it offered a commanding vantage point overlooking the city of Shechem, ensuring his voice would carry across the valley. Theologically, Mount Gerizim, along with Mount Ebal, was the site where Israel was commanded to proclaim blessings for obedience to God's law and curses for disobedience ([Deuteronomy 11:29](/deuteronomy/11-29 "Deuteronomy 11:29 - Blessings and Curses")). By speaking from Gerizim, Jotham invoked this covenantal history, lending immense authority and gravity to his message. He was essentially reminding the men of Shechem of their covenant obligations and warning them that their choice to anoint Abimelech would lead to curses, not blessings.

**What is the deeper meaning of "hearken" in Jotham's plea?**

Answer: The Hebrew verb translated "hearken" is _shama'_, which means much more than simply "to hear" aurally. It implies attentive listening, understanding, and, most importantly, obeying. When Jotham says, "Hearken unto me, ye men of Shechem, that God may hearken unto you," he is establishing a profound reciprocal relationship. He is not just asking for their attention but for their active reception and obedience to his prophetic warning. The implication is that God's willingness to respond to their prayers or cries for help in the future is contingent upon their present willingness to listen and obey His truth, delivered through Jotham. It underscores the principle that obedience to God's word is foundational for experiencing His favor and responsiveness.

**How does Jotham's message in Judges 9:7 relate to the broader narrative of the book of Judges?**

Answer: Jotham's message is a microcosm of the entire book of Judges, which chronicles Israel's cyclical descent into sin, oppression, and partial deliverance. The men of Shechem's rejection of God's true leadership (as represented by Gideon's refusal of kingship) and their embrace of Abimelech's illegitimate, violent rule perfectly illustrate Israel's spiritual decline. Jotham's warning, and the subsequent fulfillment of the curse in Judges 9, demonstrate God's unwavering justice and the inevitable consequences of forsaking Him and His righteous ways. It highlights the chaos and suffering that result when a people "do what is right in their own eyes" ([Judges 21:25](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - Everyone Did What Was Right in Their Own Eyes")), rather than hearkening to God's voice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jotham's prophetic stand on Mount Gerizim, urging the men of Shechem to "hearken" lest God refuse to "hearken" to them, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jotham, a lone voice of truth against a backdrop of treachery and illegitimate rule, foreshadows Christ, the ultimate Prophet and King, who stands as the singular voice of truth and righteousness in a fallen world. Unlike Abimelech, who seized power through violence, Jesus is the King who comes in humility, offering His life as a sacrifice ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility")). He is the true Vine to whom we must "hearken" and abide in ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abide in the Vine")), the Good Shepherd whose voice His sheep know and follow ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). The reciprocal principle Jotham articulated—that God's hearkening to us depends on our hearkening to Him—is perfectly embodied in Christ. Through His atoning work, we are granted access to the Father, and our prayers are heard when we pray in His name and according to His will ([John 14:13-14](/john/14-13-14 "John 14:13-14 - Pray in My Name")). Jotham's warning of judgment for rejecting righteous counsel points to Christ as the one who will ultimately judge all unrighteousness, establishing a kingdom that is eternal and just ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")). In Christ, the call to "hearken" becomes an invitation to life, peace, and eternal blessing, far surpassing the conditional promise offered from Mount Gerizim.

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.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 11:29

And it shall come to pass, when the LORD thy God hath brought thee in unto the land whither thou goest to possess it, that thou shalt put the blessing upon mount Gerizim, and the curse upon mount Ebal.

Deuteronomy 27:12

These shall stand upon mount Gerizim to bless the people, when ye are come over Jordan; Simeon, and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and Joseph, and Benjamin:

John 4:20

Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

Isaiah 1:15

And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.

Proverbs 28:9

¶ He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer [shall be] abomination.

Proverbs 1:28

Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:

Proverbs 1:29

For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD: