The Men of Penuel are mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in the narrative concerning Gideon, one of the judges of Israel. Penuel, also known as Peniel, is a location east of the Jordan River, significant in biblical history as the place where Jacob wrestled with God and saw Him face to face, as recorded in Genesis 32:30.

Biblical Account:

The primary reference to the Men of Penuel is found in Judges 8. After Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, achieved a miraculous victory over the Midianites with just 300 men, he pursued the fleeing kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna. During this pursuit, Gideon and his men, exhausted and in need of sustenance, approached the men of Penuel for assistance.

Judges 8:8-9 states: "From there he went up to Penuel and asked the same from them, but the men of Penuel gave the same answer as the men of Succoth. So Gideon told the men of Penuel, 'When I return in triumph, I will tear down this tower.'"

The men of Penuel, like those of Succoth, refused to provide aid to Gideon and his men. Their refusal was likely motivated by fear of retribution from the Midianites, should Gideon's campaign fail. This lack of support was seen as a lack of faith and loyalty to God's chosen deliverer, Gideon.

Gideon's Retribution:

Upon his victorious return, Gideon fulfilled his promise of retribution. Judges 8:17 records, "He also pulled down the tower of Penuel and killed the men of the city." This act of judgment by Gideon was a demonstration of the consequences of failing to support God's appointed leader and the mission against the oppressors of Israel.

Theological Implications:

The account of the Men of Penuel serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of faith and allegiance to God's purposes. Their refusal to assist Gideon highlights the dangers of prioritizing self-preservation over obedience to God's will. The destruction of the tower and the death of the men underscore the seriousness of their transgression.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Penuel's strategic location and its tower suggest it was a place of some significance, possibly serving as a defensive structure or a symbol of the city's strength. The refusal to aid Gideon may reflect the political and social tensions of the time, where local allegiances were often divided, and fear of retribution from dominant powers influenced decisions.

Legacy:

The account of the Men of Penuel is a reminder of the broader biblical theme of trust in God's deliverance and the importance of supporting His chosen leaders. It also reflects the recurring biblical motif of God's judgment against those who oppose His plans or fail to act in faith.