Judges 9:48

Judges 9:48 describes a pivotal moment in Abimelech's destructive campaign against the people of Shechem and Thebez. Having already devastated Shechem, Abimelech pursues its remaining inhabitants to a fortified tower in Thebez. This verse highlights his brutal leadership and the method he employs to ensure the tower's downfall.

Context

This verse is situated within the tragic narrative of Abimelech, the ambitious son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal), who seized power by murdering seventy of his brothers (Judges 9:5). After destroying the city of Shechem, he besieged Thebez. The people of Thebez had taken refuge in a strong tower, a common defensive structure of the time. Abimelech’s action on Mount Zalmon (likely a nearby wooded hill) demonstrates his direct, hands-on approach to warfare, setting a clear example for his troops to follow in their destructive efforts against the tower where the citizens had fled.

Key Themes

• Leadership by Example (Negative): Abimelech doesn't just command; he actively demonstrates the ruthless action he expects from his men. He takes an axe, cuts a bough (large branch), carries it, and then instructs his soldiers to imitate his destructive deed. This is a stark illustration of leadership used for violent and wicked ends.
• Calculated Destruction: The act of cutting branches to create a pile for burning against the tower walls was a common siege tactic in ancient warfare. Abimelech's method here is efficient and designed for total annihilation, reflecting his character and the brutal nature of his reign.
• Consequences of Sin and Rebellion: Abimelech's entire reign, characterized by violence and bloodshed, is a direct consequence of the spiritual decay and political instability within Israel during the period of the Judges. It fulfills the prophecy of Jotham's curse, where fire would consume both Abimelech and the men of Shechem.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "gat him up" simply means "went up," indicating Abimelech ascended Mount Zalmon. The term "bough" refers to a large branch, clearly indicating its purpose for a bonfire to burn down the tower. The direct command, "What ye have seen me do, make haste, and do as I have done," is particularly striking. It emphasizes immediate imitation and collective action. Abimelech’s leadership style here is one of aggressive demonstration, leaving no room for hesitation or deviation among his forces.

Practical Application

While Abimelech serves as a profoundly negative example, this verse offers significant insights into leadership and influence that are timeless. Every leader, whether in a family, community, or workplace, sets an example, for good or ill. People often replicate what they see modeled. This passage is a sober reminder:

• The Power of Example: Leaders' actions often speak louder than their words. Abimelech's men followed his destructive lead precisely because he demonstrated it first. This principle applies universally; positive actions by leaders can inspire good, just as negative ones can incite harm.
• Accountability for Influence: Those in positions of authority bear a heavy responsibility for the influence they exert. Abimelech used his influence for destruction, ultimately leading to his own ignominious end (Judges 9:53).
• The Dangers of Following Flawed Leadership: The people who followed Abimelech's command participated in the destruction, becoming complicit in his violent agenda. It highlights the importance of discerning good leadership from bad and the moral responsibility of individuals to choose wisely whom they follow.

This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive potential of unchecked ambition and the profound impact of a leader's example, whether positive or negative, on those who follow.