Judges 8:21

Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, "Get up and kill us yourself, for as the man is, so is his strength." So Gideon got up and killed Zebah and Zalmunna, and he took the crescent ornaments from the necks of their camels.

Study Bible

Then Zebah and Zalmunna said,
Zebah and Zalmunna were kings of Midian, a people who had oppressed Israel. Their mention here highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and Midian, which began earlier in the Book of Judges. The Midianites were nomadic and often raided Israel, leading to significant hardship for the Israelites.

“Get up and kill us yourself,
This statement reflects the ancient Near Eastern code of honor and warrior ethos. It was considered more honorable to be killed by a warrior of equal or greater status than by a subordinate. By challenging Gideon to kill them himself, Zebah and Zalmunna are appealing to this cultural norm.

for as the man is, so is his strength.”
This phrase underscores the belief that a person's strength and valor are reflective of their character and status. It implies that Gideon's strength as a leader and warrior should be demonstrated through his personal action in executing them, rather than delegating the task.

So Gideon got up and killed Zebah and Zalmunna,
Gideon's action here fulfills the role of a judge in Israel, delivering justice and demonstrating leadership. This act also serves as a culmination of his military campaign against the Midianites, which was divinely ordained. Gideon's obedience to God's call is a recurring theme in his narrative.

and he took the crescent ornaments from the necks of their camels.
The crescent ornaments were likely symbols of royalty or divinity, possibly linked to the worship of the moon god, which was common in the region. By taking these ornaments, Gideon not only claims victory but also symbolically strips the Midianite kings of their power and divine association. This act can be seen as a rejection of idolatry and a reaffirmation of the sovereignty of the God of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his faith and obedience to God, yet also for his human flaws.

2. Zebah and Zalmunna
Kings of Midian who were defeated by Gideon. Their capture and execution mark the culmination of Gideon's military campaign against the Midianites.

3. Midian
A region and people who were adversaries of Israel during the time of the Judges. The Midianites oppressed Israel until Gideon, empowered by God, led a successful campaign against them.

4. Crescent Ornaments
Decorative items taken from the camels of Zebah and Zalmunna, symbolizing the wealth and status of the Midianite kings.

5. The Battle
The broader context of Gideon's campaign against the Midianites, which was marked by divine intervention and strategic warfare.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Gideon's actions demonstrate the importance of complete obedience to God's instructions, even when they involve difficult decisions.

Strength in God
The statement "for as the man is, so is his strength" reflects a worldly view of strength. True strength for believers comes from reliance on God, not merely human ability.

Consequences of Leadership
Leaders are often called to make tough decisions. Gideon's execution of Zebah and Zalmunna shows the weight of leadership responsibilities.

Symbolism of Victory
The crescent ornaments symbolize the spoils of victory and God's deliverance. Believers are reminded to attribute their successes to God's provision.

Legacy and Influence
Gideon's actions had lasting impacts on Israel. Our actions and decisions can influence others and shape our legacy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's obedience in executing Zebah and Zalmunna contrast with Saul's actions in 1 Samuel 15, and what can we learn about obedience from these accounts?

2. In what ways does the phrase "for as the man is, so is his strength" challenge or affirm your understanding of where true strength comes from?

3. How can we apply the lesson of relying on God's strength in our daily challenges and leadership roles?

4. What do the crescent ornaments taken by Gideon symbolize in the context of spiritual victories in our lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision as a leader. How did your faith influence your actions, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 6-7
Provides the background of Gideon's calling and the miraculous victory over the Midianites with a small army, emphasizing God's power and guidance.

1 Samuel 15
The account of Saul's incomplete obedience in dealing with the Amalekites, contrasting with Gideon's complete execution of God's command against the Midianite kings.

Psalm 83
A prayer for God to deal with Israel's enemies, mentioning Midian as an example of past divine deliverance.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Lists Gideon among the heroes of faith, highlighting his reliance on God's strength despite his weaknesses.