Judges 8:21
Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, Rise thou, and fall upon us: for as the man is, so is his strength. And Gideon arose, and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and took away the ornaments that were on their camels' necks.
Judges 8:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from Judges 8:21 illustrates the defeat of the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna by the Israelite judge Gideon. After Gideon's army of three hundred men surprised and overwhelmed the Midianites, Zebah and Zalmunna pleaded with Gideon to personally execute them, acknowledging that his strength as a leader equaled that of a warrior. Gideon heeded their request and killed the two kings before confiscating the valuable ornaments from their camels. This act symbolized the complete victory of the Israelites over the oppressive Midianites, showcasing Gideon as a powerful and capable leader chosen by God to deliver his people. The passage serves as a reminder of the importance of courage and faith in the face of overwhelming odds, as Gideon's obedience and trust in God ultimately led to the triumph of the Israelites.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see the defeat of the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna at the hands of Gideon. The theological interpretation of this event emphasizes the idea that God is on the side of the weak and powerless, and that He gives strength to those who are faithful to Him. Despite being outnumbered and facing a formidable enemy, Gideon was able to overcome the enemies because of the strength and courage that God provided him. This serves as a reminder to believers that with God's help, they can conquer any obstacles or challenges that come their way. Furthermore, a word study of the verse reveals that the ornaments taken from the camels' necks symbolize the spoils of victory. This shows that God not only delivers his people from their enemies but also blesses them abundantly. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful testament to the faithfulness and strength of God in the face of adversity, and encourages believers to trust in Him in all circumstances.
Judges 8:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, Rise thou, and fall upon us; for as the man is, so is his strength. And Gideon arose, and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and took the crescents that were on their camels' necks.
World English Bible
Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, “Rise and fall on us; for as the man is, so is his strength.” Gideon arose, and killed Zebah and Zalmunna, and took the crescents that were on their camels’ necks.
Douay-Rheims
And Zebee and Salmana said: Do thou rise and run upon us: because the strength of a man is according to his age: Gedeon rose up, and slew Zebee and Salmana: and he took the ornaments and bosses, with which the necks of the camels of kings are wont to be adorned.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Zebah and Zalmunna sayd, Rise thou, and fall vpon vs: for as the man is, so is his strength. And Gideon arose and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and tooke away the ornamentes, that were on their camels neckes.