Judges 6:39
And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be hot against me, and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon all the ground let there be dew.
Judges 6:39 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, Gideon is asking God for a sign to confirm His presence and support as Gideon prepares to lead the Israelites into battle. Gideon is feeling uncertain and seeks reassurance from God through a miraculous demonstration with a fleece. Gideon asks for the fleece to be dry while the ground around it is covered in dew. This request shows Gideon's desire to have clear confirmation from God before he proceeds with his plans. By requesting this sign, Gideon demonstrates his faith in God's ability to provide guidance and direction in his life. This verse highlights the importance of seeking God's will and direction in all aspects of our lives, and trusting that He will provide the clarity and assurance we need to move forward in faith.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Gideon is seen seeking confirmation from God through a miraculous sign involving a fleece. The theological interpretation of this act is often seen as a demonstration of Gideon's lack of faith and his need for reassurance from God. By asking God to perform this miracle with the fleece, Gideon is essentially questioning God's previous assurances and seeking further proof of His presence and guidance. However, it can also be viewed as a display of humility and a desire to align his will with God's. Gideon's request for the fleece to be wet with dew while the ground around it remains dry showcases his specific prayer and desire for guidance in a tangible way. This act can serve as a reminder for believers to trust in God's promises and seek His confirmation in times of doubt or uncertainty. Through this theological lens, Gideon's actions can be seen as a lesson in faith, humility, and seeking God's will above all else.
Judges 6:39 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be kindled against me, and I will speak but this once: let me make trial, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon all the ground let there be dew.
World English Bible
Gideon said to God, “Don’t let your anger be kindled against me, and I will speak but this once. Please let me make a trial just this once with the fleece. Let it now be dry only on the fleece, and on all the ground let there be dew.”
Douay-Rheims
And he said again to God: Let not thy wrath be kindled against me, if I try once more, seeking a sign in the fleece. I pray that the fleece only may be dry, and all the ground wet with dew.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Againe, Gideon sayde vnto God, Be not angry with me, that I may speake once more: let me prooue once againe, I pray thee, with the fleece: let it now be drie onely vpon the fleece, and let dewe be vpon all the ground.