Topical Bible: Dream of Midianite Concerning the Cake of Barley

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Dream of the Midianite concerning the cake of barley is a significant event recorded in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 7:13-14. This dream serves as a divine confirmation of Gideon's impending victory over the Midianites, a pivotal moment in the narrative of Israel's deliverance from oppression.

Context and Background

The Israelites, under the leadership of Gideon, were facing the formidable forces of the Midianites, who had been oppressing them for seven years. The Midianites, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, had invaded the land, devastating the crops and leaving the Israelites impoverished. In response to their cries, God raised Gideon as a judge to deliver Israel.

Gideon, however, was initially hesitant and sought multiple signs from God to confirm his calling. After reducing his army to a mere 300 men, as instructed by God, Gideon was still anxious about the upcoming battle. It was at this point that God provided further assurance through the dream of a Midianite soldier.

The Dream

In Judges 7:13-14 , the account of the dream is as follows:

"When Gideon arrived, there was a man telling his friend about a dream. He said, 'Behold, I had a dream: A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the camp of Midian. It struck a tent, overturned it, and flattened it.' His friend replied, 'This is nothing less than the sword of Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite. God has delivered Midian and the whole camp into his hand.'"

Symbolism and Interpretation

The dream is rich in symbolism. The barley loaf represents Gideon and his small band of men. Barley, being a humble and less valued grain compared to wheat, symbolizes the seemingly insignificant and weak nature of Gideon's force. Yet, despite its humble appearance, the barley loaf in the dream has the power to overturn the tent of the Midianites, symbolizing the complete and unexpected victory that God would grant to Israel.

The interpretation of the dream by the Midianite soldier's companion underscores the divine orchestration of events. The acknowledgment that "God has delivered Midian and the whole camp into his hand" reveals the recognition of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promise to deliver Israel through Gideon.

Theological Significance

This dream highlights several key theological themes. Firstly, it underscores God's power to use the weak and insignificant to achieve His purposes, a recurring theme throughout Scripture. Secondly, it demonstrates God's faithfulness in providing assurance and encouragement to His chosen leaders, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Lastly, it serves as a testament to the fact that victory belongs to the Lord, and He alone orchestrates the deliverance of His people.

The Dream of the Midianite concerning the cake of barley is a powerful reminder of God's providence and the certainty of His promises, encouraging believers to trust in His plans and purposes, regardless of their own perceived inadequacies or the magnitude of the challenges they face.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 7:13
And when Gideon was come, behold, there was a man that told a dream to his fellow, and said, Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, see, a cake of barley bread tumbled into the host of Midian, and came to a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along.
Nave's Topical Index