Judges 8:14

There he captured a young man of Succoth and interrogated him. The young man wrote down for him the names of the seventy-seven leaders and elders of Succoth.

Study Bible

He captured a young man of Succoth
The phrase "He captured a young man of Succoth" introduces us to Gideon's strategic move in his pursuit of justice. The Hebrew root for "captured" (לָכַד, lakad) implies a tactical and decisive action, reflecting Gideon's leadership and determination. Succoth, a city east of the Jordan River, was historically significant as a place where Jacob once camped (Genesis 33:17). This context highlights the recurring theme of God's people interacting with the land and its inhabitants, often leading to divine encounters or judgments.

and questioned him
The act of questioning, from the Hebrew root שָׁאַל (sha'al), suggests a thorough interrogation. This reflects Gideon's need for precise information to hold the leaders of Succoth accountable. In a broader biblical context, questioning is often a means of seeking truth and justice, aligning with the wisdom literature's emphasis on understanding and discernment (Proverbs 2:3-5).

and the young man wrote down for him
The phrase "wrote down" (כָּתַב, kathab) signifies the importance of recording information accurately. Writing in ancient times was a skill often reserved for scribes, indicating that this young man was educated. This act of documentation underscores the biblical principle of accountability and the preservation of truth, as seen in the meticulous recording of laws and genealogies throughout Scripture (Exodus 24:4).

the names of the seventy-seven officials of Succoth
The specific mention of "seventy-seven officials" highlights the structured governance of Succoth. The number seventy-seven, often associated with completeness and divine order in biblical numerology, suggests a full representation of the city's leadership. This detail emphasizes the thoroughness of Gideon's inquiry and the comprehensive nature of divine justice, reminiscent of the seventy elders appointed to assist Moses (Numbers 11:16).

the elders of the city
"Elders" (זָקֵן, zaqen) were respected leaders and decision-makers within the community. Their role was crucial in maintaining order and justice, as seen throughout the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 19:12). The mention of elders here underscores the theme of leadership accountability, a recurring motif in the Book of Judges, where leaders are often called to account for their actions before God and His appointed deliverers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
The judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites. In this passage, he is pursuing the Midianite kings and seeking support from the people of Succoth.

2. Young Man of Succoth
An unnamed individual captured by Gideon who provides crucial information about the leaders of Succoth.

3. Succoth
A city in the territory of Gad, east of the Jordan River. The people of Succoth refused to help Gideon and his men, leading to their eventual punishment.

4. Seventy-seven Officials
The leaders and elders of Succoth who were identified by the young man. Their refusal to aid Gideon highlights their lack of faith and support for God's chosen leader.

5. Midianites
The oppressors of Israel during Gideon's time. Their defeat was a significant turning point for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Supporting God's Work
The refusal of Succoth's leaders to support Gideon serves as a warning against withholding support from God's appointed leaders and missions.

Consequences of Fear and Doubt
The leaders of Succoth acted out of fear and doubt, leading to their downfall. Trusting in God's plan is crucial, even when circumstances seem daunting.

The Role of Leadership and Accountability
The seventy-seven officials were held accountable for their actions. Leaders are responsible for guiding their people in righteousness and faith.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
Gideon's victory over the Midianites, despite the lack of support from Succoth, underscores God's sovereignty and ability to deliver His people.

The Power of Information and Wisdom
The young man's information was pivotal for Gideon's strategy. Wisdom and knowledge play a crucial role in executing God's plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of the leaders of Succoth reflect their faith or lack thereof, and what can we learn from their example about supporting God's work today?

2. In what ways does Gideon's interaction with the young man of Succoth demonstrate the importance of seeking and using information wisely in our spiritual battles?

3. How can the account of Succoth's refusal to aid Gideon inform our understanding of leadership and accountability within the church?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced fear or doubt in supporting a God-given mission. How can the account of Gideon and Succoth encourage you to act differently in the future?

5. How does the broader account of Gideon's victory over the Midianites inspire you to trust in God's sovereignty and power in your own life challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 7
Provides context for Gideon's battle against the Midianites, showing God's power and guidance in delivering Israel.

Genesis 33:17
Mentions Succoth as a place where Jacob settled temporarily, providing historical context for the city.

Proverbs 11:14
Highlights the importance of wise counsel, contrasting the poor leadership of Succoth's officials.

Hebrews 11:32-34
References Gideon as a man of faith, connecting his actions to the broader account of faith in the Bible.