Judges 9:54

He quickly called his armor-bearer, saying, "Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, 'A woman killed him.'" So Abimelech's armor-bearer ran his sword through him, and he died.

Study Bible

He quickly called his armor-bearer
The phrase "He quickly called" indicates urgency and desperation. In the Hebrew text, the word used for "quickly" suggests a sense of haste and immediacy, reflecting Abimelech's fear of disgrace. The role of an "armor-bearer" in ancient Israel was significant, often a trusted companion in battle, responsible for the warrior's weapons and sometimes acting as a confidant. This relationship underscores the gravity of Abimelech's request, as he turns to someone he trusts in his final moments.

saying, 'Draw your sword and kill me
The command "Draw your sword and kill me" reveals Abimelech's concern for his legacy and reputation. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, dying at the hands of a woman was considered a great dishonor for a warrior. The Hebrew word for "kill" here is "harag," which is often used in the context of battle or execution, emphasizing the violent and abrupt nature of his request. This reflects the cultural values of honor and shame that were prevalent in the time of the Judges.

lest they say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’
The phrase "lest they say of me" highlights Abimelech's preoccupation with how he will be remembered. The fear of being killed by a woman, in this case, the woman who dropped the millstone on him, was seen as a disgrace. This concern for reputation over life itself is a recurring theme in the narratives of the Old Testament, where honor and legacy were of utmost importance. The historical context shows that in patriarchal societies, being defeated by a woman was seen as a significant blow to a man's honor.

So his armor-bearer ran him through, and he died
The phrase "ran him through" is a direct and brutal description of Abimelech's death. The Hebrew verb used here conveys a sense of piercing or thrusting, indicating the finality and decisiveness of the act. The armor-bearer's compliance with Abimelech's request demonstrates loyalty and the fulfillment of a warrior's duty, even in the face of a morally complex situation. The phrase "and he died" marks the end of Abimelech's tumultuous reign, serving as a narrative closure to his violent and ambitious life. This moment is a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride and the pursuit of power without regard for God's will, a theme that resonates throughout the book of Judges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal), who sought to establish himself as king over Shechem and Israel. His ambition and ruthless actions led to his downfall.

2. Armor-bearer
A young man who served Abimelech by carrying his armor. He was ordered by Abimelech to kill him to avoid the shame of being killed by a woman.

3. The Woman
An unnamed woman who dropped a millstone from a tower, fatally wounding Abimelech. Her action was pivotal in fulfilling the prophecy of Abimelech's demise.

4. Shechem
A significant city in Israel where Abimelech declared himself king. It became a central location for the events leading to his rise and fall.

5. The Tower of Thebez
The location where Abimelech met his end. The people of Thebez had taken refuge there, and it was from this tower that the woman dropped the millstone.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride and Ambition
Abimelech's account is a stark reminder of how unchecked ambition and pride can lead to one's destruction. His desire to be king at any cost resulted in his violent end.

Divine Justice and Sovereignty
God's justice is evident in the account, as Abimelech's actions are repaid in kind. This serves as a reminder that God is sovereign and will bring about justice in His timing.

The Role of Unlikely Instruments in God's Plan
The unnamed woman who killed Abimelech demonstrates how God can use unexpected people and means to accomplish His purposes. This encourages believers to remain humble and open to being used by God in any capacity.

The Importance of Humility and Repentance
Abimelech's refusal to repent and humble himself before God led to his downfall. Believers are called to live lives marked by humility and a willingness to turn from sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abimelech's account illustrate the dangers of seeking power and recognition for oneself? Reflect on how this applies to modern-day leadership.

2. In what ways does the account of Abimelech's death demonstrate God's justice? Can you think of other biblical examples where God's justice is similarly displayed?

3. How can we guard against pride and ambition in our own lives, ensuring that our desires align with God's will?

4. Consider the role of the unnamed woman in Abimelech's account. How does this encourage you to be open to God's use of unexpected people and circumstances in your life?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced divine justice. How did it impact your understanding of God's sovereignty and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 9:23-24
These verses describe how God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, leading to the fulfillment of Jotham's curse. This connection highlights the divine justice that unfolds in Abimelech's account.

2 Samuel 11:21
This verse references Abimelech's death, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and ambition, which is echoed in the account of King David and Uriah.

Proverbs 16:18
This proverb about pride leading to destruction is exemplified in Abimelech's life, as his arrogance and desire for power ultimately led to his downfall.