Judges 9:56

In this way God repaid the wickedness that Abimelech had done to his father in murdering his seventy brothers.

Study Bible

In this way
This phrase indicates a specific method or manner in which an action is carried out. In the context of Judges 9, it refers to the divine justice executed upon Abimelech. The Hebrew root here suggests a purposeful and deliberate action, emphasizing that God's justice is neither random nor capricious. It serves as a reminder that God's ways, though sometimes mysterious, are always intentional and just.

God
The Hebrew word used here is "Elohim," a term that denotes the supreme deity, the Creator, and the Judge of all the earth. This highlights the divine authority and sovereignty of God in executing justice. It reassures believers that God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, ensuring that righteousness prevails.

repaid
The concept of repayment in this context is rooted in the Hebrew word "shuv," which means to return or restore. It implies a balancing of accounts, where God ensures that justice is served. This reflects the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, where actions have consequences, and divine justice will ultimately prevail.

the wickedness
"Wickedness" here is translated from the Hebrew word "ra'ah," which encompasses evil, wrongdoing, and moral corruption. Abimelech's actions were not just politically motivated but were deeply immoral, violating the sanctity of family and the divine order. This serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of sin and the inevitable judgment it brings.

that Abimelech had done
Abimelech, whose name ironically means "my father is king," sought power through treachery and violence. His actions were a direct affront to both his family and God. The historical context reveals a time of moral decay in Israel, where leaders like Abimelech rose through manipulation and bloodshed, highlighting the need for godly leadership.

to his father
This phrase underscores the betrayal and dishonor Abimelech showed towards his father, Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal). In ancient Israelite culture, honoring one's parents was a fundamental commandment, and Abimelech's actions were a grievous violation of this principle. It serves as a reminder of the importance of family loyalty and respect.

in murdering his seventy brothers
The murder of his seventy brothers was a heinous act of fratricide, driven by ambition and a lust for power. The number seventy symbolizes completeness in biblical numerology, indicating the totality of Abimelech's crime. This atrocity not only highlights the depths of human depravity but also sets the stage for divine retribution, as God does not overlook such grave injustices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal) and a concubine from Shechem. He sought power and killed his seventy brothers to establish himself as king.

2. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites. He had many sons, including Abimelech.

3. Shechem
A significant city in the hill country of Ephraim, where Abimelech was made king by the men of Shechem.

4. Seventy Brothers
The sons of Gideon, who were murdered by Abimelech in his quest for power, except for Jotham, who escaped.

5. God's Justice
The divine retribution that comes upon Abimelech for his wicked actions, as seen in the events leading to his downfall.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Abimelech's account is a stark reminder that sin, especially grave sins like murder and betrayal, leads to severe consequences. God's justice prevails, and wickedness does not go unpunished.

The Dangers of Ambition
Abimelech's ambition led him to commit heinous acts. This serves as a warning against unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power at any cost.

God's Sovereignty in Justice
Despite human actions, God's sovereignty ensures that justice is ultimately served. Believers can trust in God's timing and justice.

The Importance of Family and Brotherhood
The destruction of family ties for personal gain leads to ruin. Maintaining integrity and love within family relationships is crucial.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Abimelech illustrate the principle of sowing and reaping found in Galatians 6:7?

2. In what ways can unchecked ambition lead to destructive outcomes in our lives today?

3. How does God's justice in the account of Abimelech encourage us to trust in His sovereignty over our circumstances?

4. What lessons can we learn from the relationship between Abimelech and his brothers about the importance of family unity?

5. How can we apply the warning against shedding innocent blood from Proverbs 6:16-19 in our daily interactions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4
The account of Cain and Abel, where Cain's murder of his brother Abel leads to divine judgment, parallels the fratricide committed by Abimelech.

Proverbs 6:16-19
Lists things the Lord hates, including "hands that shed innocent blood," which directly relates to Abimelech's actions.

Galatians 6:7
The principle of sowing and reaping, where one reaps what they sow, is evident in the outcome of Abimelech's life.