Judges 9:28

And Gaal the sonne of Ebed said, Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serue him? Is not he the sonne of Ierubbaal? and Zebul his officer? serue the men of Hamor the father of Shechem: for why should we serue him? Judges 9:28 (KJV)

Context: The book of Judges describes a tumultuous period in Israel’s history when the nation was led by a succession of judges. In chapter 9, Abimelech, the son of Gideon (also called Jerubbaal), attempts to establish himself as king over Israel. Gaal, a local leader in Shechem and son of Ebed, openly challenges Abimelech’s authority, inciting rebellion among the people.

Gaal’s Disdain:

Gaal questions Abimelech’s legitimacy, asking, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Is not he the son of Jerubbaal? And Zebul his officer?” By invoking Abimelech’s lineage, Gaal suggests that the ruler lacks rightful claim and that his officers are merely imposing power.

Loyalty to Shechem:

Gaal urges the people to serve “the men of Hamur, the father of Shechem,” appealing to the city’s ancestral heritage. He implies that the citizens should remain loyal to their own roots rather than submit to an external ruler.

Underlying Division:

The passage reveals a deep division within Israel. The inhabitants of Shechem are reluctant to accept Abimelech’s rule and are drawn to the idea of independence or alignment with their historic lineage. The involvement of Zebul, Abimelech’s officer, further intensifies the internal conflict.

Lessons for Today:

This episode warns of the dangers of division and rebellion against legitimate authority. It highlights the importance of respecting rightful leadership and maintaining unity among God’s people. Personal ambition and divisive attitudes can undermine the peace and stability of a community. As with any biblical passage, careful attention to the surrounding context and the broader message of Judges is essential for a comprehensive understanding of its themes and applications.