Judges 8:31

His concubine, who dwelt in Shechem, also bore him a son, and he named him Abimelech.

Study Bible

His concubine
The term "concubine" in the Hebrew context refers to a woman who lived with a man but had a lower status than his wife or wives. Concubines were often taken for the purpose of bearing children, and their presence in a household was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures. This reflects the patriarchal society of the time, where lineage and inheritance were of utmost importance. The presence of a concubine in Gideon's life indicates the complexities and imperfections of biblical figures, reminding us that God works through flawed individuals to fulfill His purposes.

who dwelt in Shechem
Shechem was a significant city in ancient Israel, located in the hill country of Ephraim. It held historical and religious importance, being a place where God appeared to Abraham and where Jacob's well was located. The mention of Shechem here highlights the geographical and cultural setting of the narrative. It was a city with a mixed population of Israelites and Canaanites, which may have influenced the events that followed in Abimelech's life. This setting serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama of Abimelech's rise to power, illustrating the tensions and interactions between different groups within Israel.

also bore him a son
The act of bearing a son was of great significance in ancient Israelite culture, as sons were seen as carriers of the family name and inheritance. This phrase underscores the continuation of Gideon's lineage through his concubine, which would have implications for the future of his family and the nation. The birth of this son, Abimelech, sets the stage for the subsequent narrative in the Book of Judges, where issues of leadership, legitimacy, and power come to the forefront. It reminds us of the importance of family and legacy in God's unfolding plan.

and he named him Abimelech
The name "Abimelech" means "my father is king" in Hebrew. This name is significant because it reflects Gideon's influence and perhaps his aspirations or the aspirations of those around him. Although Gideon refused kingship when offered by the Israelites (Judges 8:23), the naming of his son suggests a lingering association with royal authority. This foreshadows Abimelech's later attempt to establish himself as king, which leads to turmoil and conflict. The choice of name serves as a reminder of the human tendency to seek power and control, contrasting with God's desire for humble and faithful leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites. Despite his leadership, he had a complex personal life, including relationships with multiple women.

2. Concubine
A woman who lived with Gideon in a secondary status to a wife. Her role in Gideon's life reflects the cultural practices of the time.

3. Shechem
An ancient city in the hill country of Ephraim, significant in Israel's history. It was a center of political and religious activity.

4. Abimelech
The son of Gideon and his concubine. His name means "my father is king," which foreshadows his later attempt to establish himself as a ruler.

5. Event
The birth of Abimelech marks a turning point, leading to future conflict and strife in Israel, as detailed in the subsequent chapters of Judges.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Compromise
Gideon's relationship with his concubine and the birth of Abimelech illustrate the long-term consequences of compromising God's standards for family and leadership.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Abimelech's account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-appointed leadership and the need for leaders to be chosen and anointed by God.

Legacy and Influence
The actions and decisions of one generation can significantly impact the next. Gideon's choices affected not only his immediate family but also the entire nation of Israel.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Failure
Despite human failings, God's purposes ultimately prevail. The account of Abimelech is a reminder of God's overarching plan and His ability to work through imperfect people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's relationship with his concubine reflect the cultural practices of his time, and what can we learn from this about maintaining biblical standards today?

2. In what ways does the account of Abimelech serve as a warning about the dangers of seeking power and leadership outside of God's will?

3. How can we apply the lessons from Gideon's life to ensure that our personal and family decisions align with God's purposes?

4. What parallels can you draw between the account of Abimelech and other biblical accounts of leadership gone awry, such as Saul or Rehoboam?

5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of Shechem enhance our comprehension of the events in Judges 8:31 and their significance for Israel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 16
The account of Hagar and Ishmael parallels the situation with Gideon's concubine and Abimelech, highlighting the complications that arise from relationships outside of God's design for marriage.

1 Samuel 8
The Israelites' desire for a king, which contrasts with God's original plan for them to be led by judges and prophets, is echoed in Abimelech's later actions.

Proverbs 14:12
This verse speaks to the consequences of following one's own path rather than God's, which is evident in Abimelech's life.