“Then said he unto Zebah and Zalmunna, What manner of men were they whom ye slew at Tabor? And they answered, As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king.”
Context:The book of Judges recounts the period of Israel’s history after Joshua’s death, when the Israelites had no centralised leadership and were prone to cycles of rebellion, oppression, and deliverance. In Judges 8, Gideon, one of the judges of Israel, had just defeated the Midianites with the help of God and a small army.
Background:To better understand the significance of Judges 8:18, let’s examine the preceding events. Gideon’s victory over the Midianites was a remarkable achievement. The Midianites had oppressed Israel for seven years, causing the people to cry out to God for help. God chose Gideon and empowered him to lead the Israelites to victory.
The Question:In verse 18, Gideon interrogates two Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, who had been captured. Gideon asks them about the individuals they had killed at Mount Tabor. Mount Tabor was a prominent location in Israel. Gideon wanted to know the nature and status of the men they had killed.
The Answer:Zebah and Zalmunna respond by saying, “As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king.” Their answer implies that the men they killed were of noble birth and appeared regal, like kings or princes. It suggests that these men were leaders or influential figures among the Israelites.
Significance:Gideon’s question and the Midianite kings’ response reveal an important aspect of the Israelites’ condition during that time. It highlights the oppression and subjugation they faced under the Midianites. The fact that these leaders were killed indicates the severity of the Midianite oppression and the need for deliverance.
Spiritual Application:This verse prompts us to reflect on the consequences of oppression and the importance of freedom and justice. It also emphasises the significance of godly leadership and the role of leaders in bringing about deliverance and liberation. Additionally, it reminds us of God’s faithfulness in raising up individuals to confront injustice and work for the well-being of His people.
In summary, Judges 8:18 recounts an exchange between Gideon and the Midianite kings, shedding light on the status and significance of the men they had killed. This verse serves as a reminder of the Israelites’ struggle for freedom and the importance of godly leadership in times of oppression.
