Judges 9:18

but you have risen up against my father's house this day and killed his seventy sons on a single stone, and you have made Abimelech, the son of his maidservant, king over the leaders of Shechem because he is your brother--

Study Bible

but you have risen up against my father’s house this day
This phrase highlights the betrayal and rebellion against Gideon's family. Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, was a judge of Israel who delivered the Israelites from Midianite oppression. The "house" refers to his family lineage, which was expected to be respected and honored. The act of rising up against them signifies a grave violation of familial and societal norms in ancient Israel, where family loyalty was paramount.

and killed his seventy sons on a single stone
The murder of Gideon's seventy sons is a brutal act of fratricide, emphasizing the extent of Abimelech's ambition and ruthlessness. The "single stone" suggests a methodical and public execution, possibly as a sacrificial act or to make a statement of power. This event echoes the violence and chaos prevalent in the period of the Judges, where "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). It also foreshadows the instability and moral decline that would lead to the demand for a monarchy in Israel.

and you have made Abimelech, the son of his maidservant, king
Abimelech's rise to power is marked by illegitimacy, as he is the son of Gideon's concubine, not a legitimate wife. This detail underscores the tension between legitimate heirs and those of lower status, reflecting the complex social hierarchies of the time. Abimelech's kingship is not divinely appointed, contrasting with the later anointing of kings like Saul and David, and it serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-appointed leadership.

over the leaders of Shechem
Shechem was a significant city in the tribal confederation of Israel, with historical and religious importance dating back to the time of Abraham. The leaders of Shechem's decision to support Abimelech indicates political motivations and alliances that were common in the tribal period. This alliance is strategic, as Shechem was a central location, but it also reveals the opportunistic nature of political power plays in ancient Israel.

because he is your brother—
The appeal to kinship is a powerful motivator in the ancient Near East, where family ties often dictated political alliances and social obligations. The leaders of Shechem support Abimelech not out of loyalty to Gideon's legacy but because of their shared familial connection. This highlights the theme of loyalty and betrayal that runs throughout the narrative, as well as the potential for familial relationships to be manipulated for personal gain.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal) and his concubine from Shechem. He sought power and became king by killing his seventy brothers.

2. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who delivered the Israelites from Midianite oppression. He had many sons, including Abimelech.

3. Shechem
An ancient city in the land of Canaan, significant in Israel's history. It was the place where Abimelech was made king.

4. Seventy Sons of Gideon
The legitimate sons of Gideon, who were murdered by Abimelech to secure his rule.

5. Jotham
The youngest son of Gideon who escaped Abimelech's massacre and later cursed the people of Shechem and Abimelech.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Ambition and Power
Abimelech's account warns against the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power at any cost.

Consequences of Betrayal
The betrayal of Gideon's family by the people of Shechem serves as a reminder that betrayal often leads to ruin and divine judgment.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
The chaos and bloodshed resulting from Abimelech's rule underscore the need for leaders who fear God and uphold His commandments.

God's Justice Prevails
Despite human schemes, God's justice ultimately prevails, as seen in the eventual downfall of Abimelech and the Shechemites.

Family and Legacy
The tragic end of Gideon's family highlights the importance of leaving a godly legacy and the impact of family dynamics on future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abimelech's rise to power reflect the dangers of seeking leadership for selfish reasons, and what can we learn from this in our own pursuit of leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the account of Abimelech and the Shechemites illustrate the consequences of turning away from God's guidance, and how can we apply this lesson to our community or nation?

3. How does the history of Shechem in the Bible inform our understanding of its role in Abimelech's account, and what does this teach us about the significance of place in biblical accounts?

4. What parallels can we draw between the leadership failures in Judges 9 and the warnings given by Samuel in 1 Samuel 8, and how can these insights guide us in choosing leaders today?

5. How does the theme of divine justice in Judges 9 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when human justice seems delayed or absent?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
Shechem is also the site of Dinah's defilement and the subsequent revenge by Simeon and Levi, highlighting its history of violence and betrayal.

1 Samuel 8
The Israelites' desire for a king, which parallels the Shechemites' acceptance of Abimelech, despite the warning of the consequences of such leadership.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, similar to Jotham's lament over Shechem, both expressing sorrow over the people's choices leading to destruction.