The phrase "pretense of getting wheat" refers to a deceptive act or false appearance used to achieve a particular end, often involving deceit or manipulation. This concept is illustrated in the biblical narrative found in the book of Judges, specifically in the account of Abimelech and the city of Shechem.

Biblical Context

In Judges 9, Abimelech, the son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal), seeks to establish himself as king over Shechem. After the death of his father, Abimelech conspires with the leaders of Shechem to kill his seventy brothers, thereby eliminating any potential rivals to his claim to leadership. The narrative unfolds with a series of treacherous acts and manipulations, culminating in a violent struggle for power.

The specific phrase "pretense of getting wheat" is not directly quoted in the Berean Standard Bible; however, the concept is vividly illustrated in the actions of Gaal son of Ebed, who challenges Abimelech's authority. Gaal's rebellion is marked by deceit and manipulation, as he seeks to gain the trust and support of the people of Shechem under false pretenses.

Judges 9:26-29 :
"Now Gaal son of Ebed moved with his brothers into Shechem, and the leaders of Shechem put their confidence in him. After they had gone out into the fields and gathered the grapes and trodden them, they held a festival in the temple of their god, where they ate and drank and cursed Abimelech. Then Gaal son of Ebed said, 'Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Isn’t he the son of Jerubbaal, and isn’t Zebul his deputy? Serve the men of Hamor, the father of Shechem! But why should we serve Abimelech? If only this people were under my authority, I would remove Abimelech; I would say to him, "Muster your army and come out!"'"

Gaal's rhetoric and actions are a form of pretense, as he presents himself as a champion of the people, seeking to liberate them from Abimelech's rule. However, his true intentions are self-serving, aiming to usurp power for himself.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the pretense of getting wheat can be seen as a metaphor for the broader theme of deceit and false appearances in human interactions. The Bible consistently warns against deceit and emphasizes the importance of truth and integrity. In the New Testament, Jesus condemns the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, which can be seen as a form of pretense (Matthew 23:27-28): "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."

Moral and Ethical Lessons

The narrative of Abimelech and Gaal serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deceit and the pursuit of power through dishonest means. It underscores the biblical principle that God values truth and integrity, and that deceitful actions ultimately lead to destruction and judgment. The account of Abimelech's downfall, as recounted in Judges 9:50-57, illustrates the consequences of living by pretense and manipulation.

In summary, the pretense of getting wheat, as exemplified in the account of Gaal and Abimelech, highlights the destructive nature of deceit and the importance of sincerity and truthfulness in accordance with biblical teachings.