Judges 8:26

The weight of the gold earrings he had requested was 1,700 shekels, in addition to the crescent ornaments, the pendants, the purple garments of the kings of Midian, and the chains from the necks of their camels.

Study Bible

The weight of the gold earrings he had requested was 1,700 shekels
This phrase highlights the significant amount of gold collected by Gideon from the spoils of war. A shekel was a unit of weight, approximately 11.4 grams, making the total weight around 19.38 kilograms or 42.7 pounds. This substantial amount of gold indicates the wealth accumulated from the victory over the Midianites. In biblical times, gold was a symbol of wealth and power, often used in the construction of idols or religious artifacts, as seen later in the creation of the ephod by Gideon (Judges 8:27). The collection of gold earrings also reflects the cultural practice of wearing earrings, which was common among the Ishmaelites and Midianites (Judges 8:24).

in addition to the crescent ornaments
Crescent ornaments were likely decorative items worn by the Midianites, possibly as symbols of their gods or as status symbols. The crescent shape may have had religious significance, possibly linked to moon worship, which was prevalent in ancient Near Eastern cultures. These ornaments, taken as spoils, signify the complete defeat and humiliation of the Midianite kings, stripping them of their symbols of power and divine favor.

the pendants
Pendants were likely valuable items worn as jewelry, signifying wealth and status. In the ancient world, such items were often crafted with intricate designs and could be made of precious metals or stones. The mention of pendants alongside other valuable items underscores the richness of the spoils taken from the Midianites, further emphasizing the totality of Gideon's victory.

the purple garments of the kings of Midian
Purple garments were a sign of royalty and wealth, as purple dye was rare and expensive, extracted from the murex snail. The capture of these garments symbolizes the overthrow of Midianite royalty and the transfer of their wealth and status to the Israelites. This act of taking royal garments is reminiscent of other biblical narratives where the spoils of war include the clothing of defeated kings, highlighting the theme of divine justice and reversal of fortunes.

and the chains from the necks of their camels
Camels were valuable assets in the ancient Near East, used for transportation and trade. The chains around their necks were likely decorative, indicating the wealth and status of their owners. By taking these chains, Gideon not only acquired material wealth but also demonstrated the complete subjugation of the Midianites. This detail underscores the thoroughness of the victory and the transfer of wealth from the oppressors to the Israelites, fulfilling God's promise of deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites. He requested the gold earrings from the spoils of war.

2. Midianites
A nomadic people defeated by Gideon and the Israelites. They were known for their wealth, as indicated by the gold and ornaments.

3. Gold Earrings
Part of the spoils taken from the Midianites, which Gideon requested from his men. The weight of these earrings was significant, indicating the wealth of the Midianites.

4. Crescent Ornaments and Pendants
Items of value and status, often associated with royalty or high status, taken from the Midianite kings.

5. Purple Garments
Symbolic of royalty and wealth, these garments were worn by the Midianite kings and taken as spoils.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Wealth and Power
Gideon's request for gold and royal items reflects a shift from reliance on God to a focus on material wealth and status. Believers should be cautious of allowing wealth to become an idol.

Symbolism of Royalty
The crescent ornaments and purple garments symbolize earthly power and status. Christians are reminded that true royalty is found in serving God and others, not in earthly symbols.

The Consequences of Compromise
Gideon's actions, though initially victorious, set a precedent for future compromise and idolatry in Israel. Believers should remain vigilant in their faithfulness to God.

God's Provision vs. Human Accumulation
Gideon's accumulation of wealth contrasts with God's provision for His people. Trusting in God's provision should take precedence over accumulating earthly riches.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's request for gold earrings reflect a change in his character from earlier in his account? What can we learn from this about the dangers of success and power?

2. In what ways do the crescent ornaments and purple garments symbolize a shift in focus from God to earthly status? How can we guard against similar shifts in our own lives?

3. How does the account of Gideon and the Midianites connect to the broader biblical theme of idolatry? What are some modern-day idols that can distract us from our faith?

4. Reflect on the connection between Judges 8:26 and Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21. How can we apply Jesus' teaching on treasures to our daily lives?

5. Considering the consequences of Gideon's actions, what steps can we take to ensure that our victories and successes do not lead us away from God? How can we remain humble and reliant on Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The Israelites' use of gold earrings to create the golden calf highlights the potential for wealth to lead to idolatry.

1 Samuel 8
The Israelites' request for a king, which parallels Gideon's actions in accumulating wealth and symbols of royalty, despite God's desire for them to rely on Him as their king.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus' teaching on storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth connects to the potential pitfalls of accumulating earthly wealth, as seen in Gideon's actions.