Judges 6:27
Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as the LORD had said unto him: and so it was, because he feared his father's household, and the men of the city, that he could not do it by day, that he did it by night.
Judges 6:27 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Judges, Gideon is instructed by the LORD to tear down his father's altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. However, out of fear of his family and the townspeople, he decides to carry out the task at night with ten of his servants. This event showcases Gideon's internal struggle between his obedience to God and his fear of the consequences from his immediate community. It highlights the theme of faith and trust in God even in the face of opposition or personal risk. Despite Gideon's initial hesitation, he eventually overcomes his fear and fulfills the task assigned to him by the LORD. This act of faith and courage sets the stage for Gideon's future role as a leader and warrior chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from their enemies.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse from Judges 6:27, one can see the importance of obedience to God's commands. Gideon's immediate response to carry out the LORD's instructions demonstrates his faith and trust in God's guidance. The passage also highlights the element of fear that influenced Gideon's decision to carry out the task at night rather than during the day. This fear stemmed from his concern for the opinion of his father's household and the men of the city, highlighting the pressures and obstacles believers may face when stepping out in faith. Through this verse, believers can draw parallels to their own lives, understanding that obedience to God's will may sometimes require going against societal norms or facing opposition from others. The study of the original Hebrew text further reveals the depth of Gideon's faith and the complexities of following God's will in the face of external pressures.
Judges 6:27 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as Jehovah had spoken unto him: and it came to pass, because he feared his father's household and the men of the city, so that he could not do it by day, that he did it by night.
World English Bible
Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as Yahweh had spoken to him. Because he feared his father’s household and the men of the city, he could not do it by day, but he did it by night.
Douay-Rheims
Then Gedeon, taking ten men of his servants, did as the Lord had commanded him. But fearing his father's house, and the men of that city, he would not do it by day, but did all by night.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Gideon tooke tenne men of his seruants, and did as ye Lord bade him: but because he feared to doe it by day for his fathers housholde, and the men of the citie, he did it by night.