Judges 12:15

And Abdon the son of Hillel the Pirathonite died, and was buried in Pirathon in the land of Ephraim, in the mount of the Amalekites.

And Abdon {H5658} the son {H1121} of Hillel {H1985} the Pirathonite {H6553} died {H4191}, and was buried {H6912} in Pirathon {H6552} in the land {H776} of Ephraim {H669}, in the mount {H2022} of the Amalekites {H6003}.

Then Avdon the son of Hillel from Pir'aton died and was buried at Pir'aton in the territory of Efrayim, in the 'Amalek hills.

Then Abdon son of Hillel, from Pirathon, died, and he was buried at Pirathon in Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites.

And Abdon the son of Hillel the Pirathonite died, and was buried in Pirathon in the land of Ephraim, in the hill-country of the Amalekites.

Commentary

Judges 12:15 concludes the brief account of Abdon, one of Israel's "minor judges," marking the end of his leadership and providing details of his passing and burial. This verse offers a concise historical record within the larger narrative of the Book of Judges, highlighting the cyclical nature of leadership and the transition periods in ancient Israel.

Context of Judges 12:15

This verse immediately follows the account of Abdon's twelve-year judgeship, during which he had forty sons and thirty grandsons who rode on seventy donkeys – a notable detail indicating wealth and status in that era. Abdon is the last of the four "minor judges" whose tenures are succinctly described in Judges 10-12, following Tola and Jair, and preceding the more detailed narratives of judges like Samson in the subsequent chapters. His death in Pirathon signifies the peaceful end of his service, a stark contrast to the tumultuous events often surrounding other judges.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Cycle of Judgeship: The recurring pattern of a judge arising, providing a period of peace, and then dying is a central theme in the Book of Judges. Abdon's death, like his predecessors, signals the end of one era and the inevitable need for new leadership, often followed by Israel's return to disobedience and subsequent oppression, as seen in Judges 2:16-19.
  • Brief Historical Record: For figures like Abdon, the Bible provides only essential details: lineage, hometown, duration of service, and place of burial. This brevity underscores that while every judge was important in God's plan, some served more quietly or in a less dramatic capacity than others.
  • Geographical Significance: The mention of Pirathon in the land of Ephraim and the "mount of the Amalekites" anchors Abdon's story in a specific geographical and historical setting, reminding us of the diverse territories and peoples within and around Israel.

Linguistic and Historical Insights

  • Pirathon: Abdon is identified as "the Pirathonite," indicating his origin from Pirathon, a city likely located in the tribal territory of Ephraim. This region was strategically important and home to other significant figures, including Deborah's general, Barak, who was from Mount Tabor, also in Ephraim's vicinity.
  • Land of Ephraim: One of the most prominent and powerful tribes in Israel, Ephraim's territory was central, and its influence was significant throughout the period of the judges.
  • Mount of the Amalekites: The Amalekites were a nomadic, warlike people who were long-standing enemies of Israel, first attacking them shortly after the Exodus (Exodus 17:8-16). Their inclusion in the burial place's description might indicate a specific ridge or area historically associated with them, perhaps due to past conflicts or their occasional presence in the region, even within Israelite territory. Their hostility continued for centuries, culminating in God's command for their utter destruction (1 Samuel 15:2-3).

Practical Application

Judges 12:15, though brief, offers several enduring lessons:

  • Faithful Service, Regardless of Prominence: Abdon's story reminds us that not every leader or act of service is recorded with great detail or dramatic flair. Yet, his twelve years of judgeship were vital for his generation, providing stability and justice. It encourages us to serve faithfully in whatever capacity God calls us, whether in prominent roles or behind the scenes.
  • The Reality of Mortality: The simple statement "Abdon... died, and was buried" is a universal truth. It underscores the brevity of life and the certainty of death, prompting reflection on our own legacy and how we utilize the time God has given us.
  • God's Sustaining Hand: Even in periods marked by Israel's spiritual decline, God consistently raised up leaders like Abdon to deliver and guide His people, demonstrating His enduring faithfulness and patience.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Judges 5:14 (3 votes)

    Out of Ephraim [was there] a root of them against Amalek; after thee, Benjamin, among thy people; out of Machir came down governors, and out of Zebulun they that handle the pen of the writer.

  • 1 Samuel 15:7 (2 votes)

    And Saul smote the Amalekites from Havilah [until] thou comest to Shur, that [is] over against Egypt.

  • Judges 3:13 (2 votes)

    And he gathered unto him the children of Ammon and Amalek, and went and smote Israel, and possessed the city of palm trees.

  • Genesis 14:7 (2 votes)

    And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which [is] Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.

  • Exodus 17:8 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.

  • Judges 3:27 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass, when he was come, that he blew a trumpet in the mountain of Ephraim, and the children of Israel went down with him from the mount, and he before them.

  • 2 Samuel 23:30 (2 votes)

    Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai of the brooks of Gaash,