Judges 9:18

but you have risen up against my father's house this day and killed his seventy sons on a single stone, and you have made Abimelech, the son of his maidservant, king over the leaders of Shechem because he is your brother--

Study Bible

But you have risen up
This phrase indicates an act of rebellion or insurrection. In the Hebrew context, the verb "risen up" (קוּם, qum) often implies a deliberate and forceful action. Historically, this reflects the turbulent period of the Judges, where Israel frequently experienced cycles of rebellion against God and His appointed leaders. The act of rising up against established authority is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often leading to divine judgment.

against my father’s house
The "father's house" refers to the family lineage and authority of Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal. In ancient Israel, the family unit was central to social and religious life. The attack on Gideon's house is not just a personal vendetta but an assault on the God-ordained leadership and legacy. This highlights the gravity of Abimelech's actions, as he disrupts the divinely established order.

today
The use of "today" emphasizes the immediacy and urgency of the situation. It suggests a pivotal moment in Israel's history, where decisions and actions have immediate and long-lasting consequences. In the biblical narrative, "today" often marks a significant turning point, calling the audience to reflect on the present moment's spiritual and moral implications.

and killed his seventy sons
The number "seventy" in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or totality. The slaughter of Gideon's sons represents a complete eradication of his lineage, a heinous act of fratricide. This massacre underscores the depth of Abimelech's ambition and the moral decay present in Israel during this period. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

on a single stone
The "single stone" may symbolize a place of execution or judgment. In ancient cultures, stones were often used as altars or places of sacrifice. This detail highlights the brutality and premeditated nature of the killings. It also serves as a metaphor for the hardness of Abimelech's heart and the solidification of his rebellion against God's chosen order.

and made Abimelech, the son of his maidservant
Abimelech's status as "the son of his maidservant" indicates his lower social standing and illegitimacy in the eyes of Israelite society. This background adds a layer of complexity to his character, as he seeks to overcome his status through ruthless ambition. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God using unexpected individuals to fulfill His purposes, though in Abimelech's case, it is through negative example.

king over the leaders of Shechem
Shechem holds historical and spiritual significance in Israel's history, being a city of refuge and a place of covenant renewal. The leaders of Shechem's decision to make Abimelech king reveals their complicity in his rebellion and their departure from covenant faithfulness. This act of crowning a king outside of God's will foreshadows the later struggles Israel will face with monarchy.

because he is your brother
The phrase "because he is your brother" highlights the tribal and familial loyalties that often influenced political decisions in ancient Israel. This nepotism contrasts with the biblical ideal of leadership based on divine calling and righteousness. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing human relationships over obedience to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal) and his concubine from Shechem. He sought power and became king by killing his seventy brothers.

2. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who delivered the Israelites from Midianite oppression. He had many sons, including Abimelech.

3. Shechem
An ancient city in the land of Canaan, significant in Israel's history. It was the place where Abimelech was made king.

4. Seventy Sons of Gideon
The legitimate sons of Gideon, who were murdered by Abimelech to secure his rule.

5. Jotham
The youngest son of Gideon who escaped Abimelech's massacre and later cursed the people of Shechem and Abimelech.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Ambition and Power
Abimelech's account warns against the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power at any cost.

Consequences of Betrayal
The betrayal of Gideon's family by the people of Shechem serves as a reminder that betrayal often leads to ruin and divine judgment.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
The chaos and bloodshed resulting from Abimelech's rule underscore the need for leaders who fear God and uphold His commandments.

God's Justice Prevails
Despite human schemes, God's justice ultimately prevails, as seen in the eventual downfall of Abimelech and the Shechemites.

Family and Legacy
The tragic end of Gideon's family highlights the importance of leaving a godly legacy and the impact of family dynamics on future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abimelech's rise to power reflect the dangers of seeking leadership for selfish reasons, and what can we learn from this in our own pursuit of leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the account of Abimelech and the Shechemites illustrate the consequences of turning away from God's guidance, and how can we apply this lesson to our community or nation?

3. How does the history of Shechem in the Bible inform our understanding of its role in Abimelech's account, and what does this teach us about the significance of place in biblical accounts?

4. What parallels can we draw between the leadership failures in Judges 9 and the warnings given by Samuel in 1 Samuel 8, and how can these insights guide us in choosing leaders today?

5. How does the theme of divine justice in Judges 9 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when human justice seems delayed or absent?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
Shechem is also the site of Dinah's defilement and the subsequent revenge by Simeon and Levi, highlighting its history of violence and betrayal.

1 Samuel 8
The Israelites' desire for a king, which parallels the Shechemites' acceptance of Abimelech, despite the warning of the consequences of such leadership.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, similar to Jotham's lament over Shechem, both expressing sorrow over the people's choices leading to destruction.