Judges 8:18

"He broke down the tower of Penuel, and killed the men of the city."

Key Reflection

In Judges 8:18, Zebul, one of God's prophets, broke down the tower of Penuel and killed its inhabitants after they refused to provide him with information about Gilead’s people. The original audience would have understood this act as a powerful demonstration of divine authority and judgment, underscoring that those who withhold truth or fail in their duties are subject to severe consequences. This action also highlights the theme of faithfulness and the importance of obedience to God's representatives.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

What manner of men -literally, “Where are the men?” The sense, “what manner of men”, is merely gathered from the tenor of the answer. Gideon doubtless knew that his brethren had been killed by Zebah and Zalmunna, and the desire of avenging their death was one motive for his impetuous pursuit and attack. His question was rather a taunt, a bitter reproach to his captives, preparing them for their fate. Zebah and Zalmunna, in their answer, did not give evidence against themselves. Their hope was by a flattering answer to soothe Gideon’s wrath.

More from Judges 8

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