Judges 8:3
New International Version
God gave Oreb and Zeeb, the Midianite leaders, into your hands. What was I able to do compared to you?” At this, their resentment against him subsided.

New Living Translation
God gave you victory over Oreb and Zeeb, the commanders of the Midianite army. What have I accomplished compared to that?” When the men of Ephraim heard Gideon’s answer, their anger subsided.

English Standard Version
God has given into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. What have I been able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger against him subsided when he said this.

Berean Standard Bible
God has delivered Oreb and Zeeb, the two princes of Midian, into your hand. What was I able to do compared to you?” When he had said this, their anger against him subsided.

King James Bible
God hath delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.

New King James Version
God has delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. And what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he said that.

New American Standard Bible
God has handed over to you the leaders of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he said that.

NASB 1995
“God has given the leaders of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb into your hands; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he said that.

NASB 1977
“God has given the leaders of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb into your hands; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he said that.

Legacy Standard Bible
God has given the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb, into your hands; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he spoke this word.

Amplified Bible
God has given the leaders of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb into your hands; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger toward him subsided when he made this statement.

Christian Standard Bible
God handed over to you Oreb and Zeeb, the two princes of Midian. What was I able to do compared to you? ” When he said this, their anger against him subsided.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
God handed over to you Oreb and Zeeb, the two princes of Midian. What was I able to do compared to you?” When he said this, their anger against him subsided.

American Standard Version
God hath delivered into your hand the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison with you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.

Contemporary English Version
Besides, God chose you to capture Raven and Wolf. I didn't do a thing compared to you. By the time Gideon had finished talking, the men of Ephraim had calmed down and were no longer angry with him.

English Revised Version
God hath delivered into your hand the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
God handed Oreb and Zeeb, Midian's commanders, over to you. What have I done compared with that?" When they heard what Gideon said, they weren't angry with him anymore.

Good News Translation
After all, through the power of God you killed the two Midianite chiefs, Oreb and Zeeb. What have I done to compare with that?" When he said this, they were no longer so angry.

International Standard Version
God gave Oreb and Zeeb, the leaders of Midian, into your control. What was I able to do compared to you?" When he said this, their anger calmed down.

Majority Standard Bible
God has delivered Oreb and Zeeb, the two princes of Midian, into your hand. What was I able to do compared to you?? When he had said this, their anger against him subsided.

NET Bible
It was to you that God handed over the Midianite generals, Oreb and Zeeb! What did I accomplish to rival that?" When he said this, they calmed down.

New Heart English Bible
God has delivered into your hand the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?" Then their anger subsided toward him, when he had said that.

Webster's Bible Translation
God hath delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then, when he had said that, their anger towards him abated.

World English Bible
God has delivered into your hand the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb! What was I able to do in comparison with you?” Then their anger was abated toward him when he had said that.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
God has given the heads of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb, into your hand; and what have I been able to do like you?” Then their temper desisted from off him in his speaking this thing.

Young's Literal Translation
Into your hand hath God given the heads of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; and what have I been able to do like you?' Then their temper desisted from off him in his speaking this thing.

Smith's Literal Translation
Into your hand God gave the chiefs of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do according to you? Then was their spirit relaxed from over him in his speaking this word.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The Lord hath delivered into your bands the princes of Madian, Oreb and Zeb: what could I have done like to what you have done? And when he had said this, their spirit was appeased, with which they swelled against him.

Catholic Public Domain Version
The Lord has delivered into your hands the leaders of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. What could I have done that would be so great as what you have done?” And when he had said this, their spirit, which was swelling up against him, was quieted.

New American Bible
It was into your power God delivered the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. What have I been able to do in comparison with you?” When he said this, their anger against him subsided.

New Revised Standard Version
God has given into your hands the captains of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; what have I been able to do in comparison with you?” When he said this, their anger against him subsided.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
For in Jezreel God has delivered into your hands the two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; and what was I able to do in comparison to you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Into your hands God has delivered the two Princes of Midian, Orib and Zeeb, and what was I able to do compared to you?” Then their venom departed from him when he spoke this answer
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
God hath delivered into your hand the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; and what was I able to do in comparison with you?' Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
The Lord has delivered into your hand the princes of Madiam, Oreb and Zeb; and what could I do in comparison of you? Then was their spirit calmed toward him, when he spoke this word.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Gideon Defeats Zebah and Zalmunna
2But Gideon answered them, “Now what have I accomplished compared to you? Are not the gleanings of Ephraim better than the grape harvest of Abiezer? 3God has delivered Oreb and Zeeb, the two princes of Midian, into your hand. What was I able to do compared to you?” When he had said this, their anger against him subsided. 4Then Gideon and his three hundred men came to the Jordan and crossed it, exhausted yet still in pursuit.…

Cross References
Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

James 1:19-20
My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, / for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires.

Proverbs 16:32
He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper is greater than one who captures a city.

Ecclesiastes 7:9
Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger settles in the lap of a fool.

Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

Romans 12:18
If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.

Ephesians 4:2-3
with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, / and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, / gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

1 Peter 3:8-9
Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tenderhearted and humble. / Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

2 Timothy 2:24
And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing.

Colossians 3:12-13
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. / Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. / It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs.

Philippians 2:3-4
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. / Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Romans 14:19
So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-15
And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone. / Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.


Treasury of Scripture

God has delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that.

God

Judges 7:24,25
And Gideon sent messengers throughout all mount Ephraim, saying, Come down against the Midianites, and take before them the waters unto Bethbarah and Jordan. Then all the men of Ephraim gathered themselves together, and took the waters unto Bethbarah and Jordan…

Psalm 44:3
For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them.

Psalm 115:1
Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake.

then

Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Proverbs 16:32
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Proverbs 25:11,15
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver…

anger.

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Abated Able Anger Chiefs Compared Comparison Delivered Hand Hands Heads Leaders Midian Mid'ian Midianite Oreb Princes Resentment Speaking Subsided Temper Towards Zeeb
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Abated Able Anger Chiefs Compared Comparison Delivered Hand Hands Heads Leaders Midian Mid'ian Midianite Oreb Princes Resentment Speaking Subsided Temper Towards Zeeb
Judges 8
1. Gideon pacifies the Ephraimites
4. Succoth and Penuel refuse to deliver Gideon's army
10. Zebah and Zalmunna are taken
13. Succoth and Penuel are destroyed
17. Gideon revenges his brothers's death on Zebah and Zalmunna
22. He refuses government
24. His ephod the cause of idolatry
28. Midian subdued
29. Gideon's children, and death
33. The Israelites' idolatry and ingratitude














When God
The phrase "When God" introduces the divine intervention and sovereignty that is central to the narrative of Judges. In Hebrew, the word for God here is "Elohim," which emphasizes His power and majesty. This term is often used in contexts where God's might and authority are being highlighted. The acknowledgment of God's role in the events of Israel's history is a recurring theme in the book of Judges, reminding the reader of the ultimate source of victory and deliverance.

handed over
The phrase "handed over" is translated from the Hebrew word "nathan," which means to give, deliver, or bestow. This term is significant in the context of Judges, as it underscores the idea that victories and defeats are ultimately in God's control. The use of this word here suggests that the triumph over the Midianites was not merely a result of human effort but was orchestrated by divine will.

the leaders of Midian
The "leaders of Midian" refers to the princes or chiefs of the Midianite people, who were adversaries of Israel during this period. Historically, the Midianites were a nomadic people who often clashed with the Israelites. The defeat of their leaders symbolizes a significant victory for Israel, as it represents the dismantling of the enemy's power structure. This victory is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to protect and deliver His people.

Oreb and Zeeb
Oreb and Zeeb were the names of the Midianite leaders defeated by Gideon and his men. Their names, meaning "raven" and "wolf" respectively, may symbolize their predatory nature and the threat they posed to Israel. The specific mention of these leaders highlights the completeness of the victory and serves as a reminder of God's ability to subdue even the most formidable foes.

what was I able to do
This phrase reflects Gideon's humility and recognition of his limitations. In the broader context of Judges, Gideon is portrayed as a reluctant leader who often doubts his own abilities. His acknowledgment here serves as a reminder that the true source of strength and success is not human effort but divine intervention. This humility is a model for believers, emphasizing reliance on God rather than personal prowess.

in comparison with you?
The rhetorical question "in comparison with you?" is Gideon's way of deflecting credit from himself to the Ephraimites, who captured and killed Oreb and Zeeb. This statement is an example of wise leadership, as Gideon seeks to maintain unity among the tribes of Israel by acknowledging the contributions of others. It underscores the importance of collaboration and the recognition of each person's role in the collective success of God's people.

Then their resentment against him subsided
The resolution of conflict is captured in the phrase "Then their resentment against him subsided." The Hebrew root for "resentment" here is "ruach," which can also mean spirit or breath, indicating a calming of emotions. This outcome highlights the effectiveness of Gideon's diplomatic approach and the importance of peacemaking within the community of believers. It serves as a reminder that wise and humble leadership can quell discord and foster unity.

when he said this
The concluding phrase "when he said this" emphasizes the power of words in resolving conflict and promoting peace. Gideon's response to the Ephraimites demonstrates the biblical principle that a gentle answer can turn away wrath (Proverbs 15:1). This serves as an inspiration for believers to use their words wisely, recognizing their potential to heal and unite rather than divide.

(3) Then their anger was abated towards him.--The soft answer turned away wrath (Proverbs 15:1). The word for anger is mach, "wind," or "spirit"--anger expressed by fierce breathing through the nostrils, "the blast of the terrible ones" (Isaiah 25:4). (Comp. Ecclesiastes 10:4 : "If the spirit (ruach) of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.") "Gideon's good words were as victorious as his sword."--Bp. Hall.



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
God
אֱלֹהִ֜ים (’ĕ·lō·hîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative

has delivered
נָתַ֨ן (nā·ṯan)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5414: To give, put, set

Oreb
עֹרֵ֣ב (‘ō·rêḇ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6159: Oreb -- a Midianite

and Zeeb,
זְאֵ֔ב (zə·’êḇ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 2062: Zeeb -- 'wolf', a leader in Midian

the two princes
שָׂרֵ֤י (śā·rê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 8269: Chieftain, chief, ruler, official, captain, prince

of Midian,
מִדְיָן֙ (miḏ·yān)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4080: Midian -- a son of Abraham and Keturah, also his descendants and the region where they settled

into your hands.
בְּיֶדְכֶם֩ (bə·yeḏ·ḵem)
Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine plural
Strong's 3027: A hand

What
וּמַה־ (ū·mah-)
Conjunctive waw | Interrogative
Strong's 4100: What?, what!, indefinitely what

was I able
יָּכֹ֖לְתִּי (yā·ḵō·lə·tî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 3201: To be able, have power

to do
עֲשׂ֣וֹת (‘ă·śō·wṯ)
Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 6213: To do, make

in comparison with you?”
כָּכֶ֑ם (kā·ḵem)
Preposition | second person masculine plural
Strong's Hebrew

When he said
בְּדַבְּר֖וֹ (bə·ḏab·bə·rōw)
Preposition-b | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

this,
הַזֶּֽה׃ (haz·zeh)
Article | Pronoun - masculine singular
Strong's 2088: This, that

their anger
רוּחָם֙ (rū·ḥām)
Noun - common singular construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 7307: Wind, breath, exhalation, life, anger, unsubstantiality, a region of the sky, spirit

toward him
מֵֽעָלָ֔יו (mê·‘ā·lāw)
Preposition-m | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

subsided.
רָפְתָ֤ה (rā·p̄ə·ṯāh)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 7503: Sink, relax


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OT History: Judges 8:3 God has delivered into your hand (Jd Judg. Jdg)
Judges 8:2
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