Judges 6:24

So Gideon built an altar to the LORD there and called it The LORD Is Peace. To this day it stands in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

Study Bible

So Gideon built an altar
The act of building an altar in ancient Israel was a significant expression of worship and dedication to God. The Hebrew word for altar, "mizbeach," is derived from the root "zabach," meaning "to sacrifice." This indicates that altars were primarily places of sacrifice and offering. Gideon's construction of an altar signifies his acknowledgment of God's presence and his commitment to worship and obey Him. In the context of Judges, where Israel repeatedly falls into idolatry, Gideon's altar represents a return to true worship of Yahweh.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capital letters in the BSB signifies the translation of the Hebrew name "YHWH" or "Yahweh," the covenant name of God. This name emphasizes God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. By building the altar to Yahweh, Gideon is recognizing the God of Israel as the one true God, distinct from the Canaanite deities that had led Israel astray.

there
The word "there" indicates a specific location where Gideon encountered God. This place becomes a sacred site due to the divine encounter. In biblical history, locations where God revealed Himself often became places of worship and remembrance, serving as physical reminders of God's intervention and faithfulness.

and called it The LORD Is Peace
The name "The LORD Is Peace" translates the Hebrew "Yahweh Shalom." "Shalom" is a rich Hebrew word that encompasses peace, completeness, welfare, and harmony. By naming the altar "Yahweh Shalom," Gideon acknowledges the peace that comes from God's presence and assurance, even amidst the turmoil of Midianite oppression. This declaration of peace is profound, as it comes at a time when Israel is experiencing anything but peace, highlighting the transformative power of God's presence.

To this day
This phrase suggests that the altar remained a lasting memorial of God's revelation to Gideon. It implies that the account was written at a time when the altar was still standing, serving as a historical witness to God's faithfulness. Such memorials were common in Israel's history, serving to remind future generations of God's mighty acts.

it stands in Ophrah
Ophrah was a town in the territory of Manasseh, associated with Gideon's family, the Abiezrites. The mention of Ophrah roots the narrative in a real geographical location, providing historical authenticity to the account. Archaeological evidence often supports the existence of such sites, grounding biblical events in the physical world.

of the Abiezrites
The Abiezrites were a clan within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. By specifying Gideon's clan, the text highlights his humble origins and the unlikely nature of his calling. This detail underscores a recurring biblical theme: God often chooses the least likely individuals to accomplish His purposes, demonstrating that His power is made perfect in weakness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his initial hesitance and need for reassurance from God.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

3. The Altar
Built by Gideon as a response to God's revelation and promise of peace. It symbolizes worship, remembrance, and dedication to God.

4. Ophrah
A town in the territory of the tribe of Manasseh, specifically associated with the family of the Abiezrites, to which Gideon belonged.

5. The Abiezrites
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh, highlighting Gideon's familial and tribal context.

Teaching Points

Recognizing God's Presence
Gideon's building of the altar signifies an acknowledgment of God's presence and intervention. In our lives, we should create "altars" of remembrance for God's faithfulness.

Peace in God's Promises
The name "The LORD Is Peace" reflects the peace that comes from trusting in God's promises. Believers are encouraged to find peace in God's Word and His assurances.

Worship as a Response
Gideon's immediate response to God's revelation was worship. Our response to God's work in our lives should be one of worship and gratitude.

Legacy of Faith
The altar remained as a testament to future generations. Our acts of faith can leave a lasting impact on those who come after us.

God's Peace Amidst Trials
Gideon was in a time of national distress, yet he found peace in God. We are reminded that God's peace is available even in our most challenging circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's response to God's revelation challenge us to recognize and respond to God's presence in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we build "altars" of remembrance in our lives to commemorate God's faithfulness and peace?

3. How does the peace that Gideon experienced compare to the peace promised by Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can worship God in response to His work in our lives, similar to Gideon's building of the altar?

5. How can we ensure that our acts of faith leave a legacy for future generations, as Gideon's altar did for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Philippians 4:7
This verse speaks of the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, which guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It connects to the peace Gideon experiences through God's presence.

Isaiah 9:6
Refers to the coming Messiah as the "Prince of Peace," linking the peace Gideon acknowledges to the ultimate peace brought by Jesus Christ.

John 14:27
Jesus promises His peace to His followers, a peace not as the world gives, echoing the divine peace Gideon recognizes.