Judges 9:48

he and all his men went up to Mount Zalmon. Abimelech took his axe in his hand and cut a branch from the trees, which he lifted to his shoulder, saying to his men, "Hurry and do what you have seen me do."

Study Bible

he and all his men went up Mount Zalmon
The phrase "he and all his men" refers to Abimelech and his followers. Abimelech, a son of Gideon, had declared himself king and was known for his ruthless ambition. The ascent to "Mount Zalmon" is significant as it represents a strategic move in his campaign against the city of Shechem. Mount Zalmon, possibly identified with a wooded area near Shechem, symbolizes a place of preparation and action. The historical context here is one of conflict and power struggle, reflecting the turbulent period of the Judges when Israel had no king, and everyone did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25).

He took an axe in his hand
The "axe" is a tool of both construction and destruction. In the hands of Abimelech, it becomes an instrument of war. The act of taking the axe signifies leadership and initiative. In the Hebrew context, tools and weapons often carried symbolic meanings, representing authority and the ability to shape one's environment. Abimelech's action here is decisive, reflecting his character as a man who takes matters into his own hands, often with violent outcomes.

and cut down a branch
The "branch" is a symbol of life and growth, yet here it is severed, indicating destruction. This act of cutting down a branch foreshadows the destruction Abimelech intends to bring upon Shechem. In biblical symbolism, branches can represent people or nations (as seen in passages like Isaiah 11:1). The cutting down of the branch can be seen as a metaphor for Abimelech's intent to cut down his enemies.

which he lifted to his shoulder
"Lifting to his shoulder" implies bearing a burden or taking responsibility. In this context, it shows Abimelech leading by example, demonstrating to his men what he expects them to do. The shoulder is often associated with strength and the ability to carry weight, both physically and metaphorically. This act of lifting the branch signifies readiness for the task at hand, a call to action for his followers.

'Quick!' he said to the men with him
The command "Quick!" indicates urgency and the need for immediate action. Abimelech's leadership style is direct and commanding, reflecting the urgency of the situation. The Hebrew root for quickness often conveys swiftness and decisiveness, qualities necessary in battle. This urgency underscores the perilous nature of their mission and the need for prompt obedience.

'Do what you have seen me do.'
This phrase is a call to imitation and unity of action. Abimelech sets himself as an example for his men, expecting them to follow his lead. In the biblical narrative, leaders often model behavior for their followers, as seen with figures like Moses and Joshua. This directive emphasizes the importance of leadership by example and the power of collective action in achieving a common goal. It also highlights the theme of influence, as Abimelech's actions directly impact those who follow him, for better or worse.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal), who declared himself king over Shechem and led a violent campaign to secure his rule.

2. Mount Zalmon
A location near Shechem where Abimelech and his men gathered branches to set fire to the tower of Shechem.

3. Shechem
An ancient city in the hill country of Ephraim, significant in Israel's history, where Abimelech's violent actions took place.

4. The Men of Abimelech
Followers of Abimelech who participated in his campaign and followed his lead in the destruction of Shechem.

5. The Tower of Shechem
A stronghold where the people of Shechem sought refuge, which Abimelech set on fire.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Influence
Abimelech's actions demonstrate the power of leadership, for good or ill. Leaders must be mindful of their influence and the example they set.

Consequences of Ambition
Abimelech's account is a cautionary tale about unchecked ambition and the destructive path it can lead to. Ambition should be tempered with humility and a desire to serve others.

The Cycle of Violence
The events at Shechem illustrate the destructive cycle of violence and retribution. As Christians, we are called to break this cycle through forgiveness and reconciliation.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Abimelech's lack of godly counsel and accountability led to his downfall. Surrounding ourselves with wise, godly advisors can help us make righteous decisions.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Despite Abimelech's evil actions, God's justice ultimately prevails. We can trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about justice in His timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abimelech's leadership style contrast with the biblical model of servant leadership exemplified by Jesus?

2. In what ways can unchecked ambition lead to personal and communal destruction, and how can we guard against it in our own lives?

3. How does the account of Abimelech and Shechem illustrate the principle of sowing and reaping found in Galatians 6:7?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are surrounded by godly counsel and accountability in our decision-making processes?

5. How can we trust in God's sovereignty and justice when we witness or experience injustice in the world today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 9:1-6
Provides context for Abimelech's rise to power and his ruthless ambition, highlighting his character and motivations.

Genesis 34
Shechem is also the site of the incident involving Dinah, showing its historical significance and recurring themes of violence and retribution.

2 Samuel 23:28
Mentions Zalmon, one of David's mighty warriors, possibly connecting to the location of Mount Zalmon.

Proverbs 16:18
Offers wisdom on pride and destruction, relevant to Abimelech's downfall.

Galatians 6:7
Speaks to the principle of sowing and reaping, applicable to Abimelech's actions and their consequences.