In Judges 9, Abimelech, the son of Gideon, seeks to become a ruler over Israel. He convinces the people of Shechem to support him, and they give him silver from the temple of Baal-Berith. Abimelech uses this money to hire worthless and reckless men who help him kill all of his brothers, except for Jotham who escapes.
After gaining control, Abimelech rules over Israel for three years. However, God sends an evil spirit between Abimelech and the people of Shechem, leading to rebellion and violence. Gaal, a leader from Shechem, challenges Abimelech’s rule, but Abimelech successfully defeats him.
Jotham, who had escaped, appears on Mount Gerizim and delivers a parable to the people of Shechem, warning them of the consequences of supporting Abimelech. Jotham predicts that both Abimelech and the people of Shechem will suffer destruction.
The relationship between Abimelech and the people of Shechem continues to deteriorate, and eventually, Abimelech attacks Shechem and destroys it. He also sets fire to the tower of Shechem, killing thousands of people.
In the end, Abimelech meets his demise when a woman drops a millstone from a tower, crushing his skull. Realizing his defeat, he asks his armor-bearer to kill him to avoid being killed by a woman. Thus, Abimelech’s wicked reign comes to an end.
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