Judges 8:31

And his concubine that was in Shechem, she also bare him a son, whose name he called Abimelech.

Judges 8:31 (KJV)

Context

This verse appears in the book of Judges, after Gideon, also called Jerubbaal, had led Israel to victory over the Midianites. Gideon served as a judge, a leader God raised up to deliver His people from oppression. The verse briefly records a personal matter in Gideon’s household: a concubine living in Shechem bore him a son, whom he named Abimelech. This event is part of the larger narrative following Gideon’s victory, where he served as a judge chosen by God to deliver Israel.

Meaning

In biblical times, a concubine was a secondary wife with lower status than a primary wife. This practice was common in the ancient world, but it did not follow God’s original design for marriage, as seen in Genesis 2:24, where a man leaves his parents and cleaves to his wife. The verse does not approve or condemn the arrangement; it simply reports what happened. The name Abimelech means “my father is king” or “father of a king.” This name may reveal Gideon’s hope that his son would become a ruler, though Gideon himself had refused kingship earlier, saying the Lord would rule over Israel (Judges 8:23). The mention of the concubine highlights a domestic arrangement that, while common in that era, fell short of God’s design for marriage.

Biblical connections

The birth of Abimelech sets the stage for the next chapters of Judges. Abimelech later seized power by killing his brothers and became a violent ruler over Shechem. His story shows how a family choice made outside God’s design can lead to sorrow and conflict. The mention of Shechem is also significant, for it was a place with a long history in Israel, from the time of Abraham to the covenant renewal under Joshua. The birth of Abimelech sets the stage for later events in Judges, where Abimelech’s actions bring tragedy and conflict.

Application

Gideon’s example reminds us that even faithful leaders can make unwise decisions. His choice to have a concubine and to name his son Abimelech had lasting effects on his family and on Israel. Parents have a powerful influence on their children. Our words, values, and ambitions can shape the next generation. It is wise to seek God’s guidance in family matters and to build our homes on His principles rather than on the customs of the world. The verse underscores the consequences of Gideon’s choices and the complex legacy he left for Israel.

Reflection

This verse invites us to examine our own decisions and their possible consequences. Small choices, made without prayer, can grow into large problems. Yet God remains sovereign, and He can work even through flawed human actions. We are called to trust His wisdom and to walk in obedience, knowing that our choices matter for those who come after us.