Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, a millstone was a crucial tool used for grinding grain into flour. Typically, it consisted of two stones: a stationary base stone and a rotating upper stone. The millstone is often used metaphorically in Scripture to signify a heavy burden or a severe judgment.The account of Abimelech's death by a millstone is a vivid illustration of divine justice and the fulfillment of prophecy. Abimelech, the son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal), sought to establish himself as king over Shechem and its surrounding areas. His rise to power was marked by treachery and bloodshed, including the murder of his seventy brothers (Judges 9:1-5). Abimelech's reign was short-lived and tumultuous. After three years, God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, leading to conflict and rebellion (Judges 9:22-24). In the ensuing battles, Abimelech captured the city of Thebez. As he attempted to set fire to a tower where the city's inhabitants had taken refuge, a woman dropped an upper millstone from the tower, striking Abimelech on the head and crushing his skull (Judges 9:50-53). In his final moments, Abimelech, not wanting to be remembered as having been killed by a woman, commanded his armor-bearer to kill him with a sword. The young man complied, and Abimelech died (Judges 9:54). This event fulfilled Jotham's curse, the only surviving brother of Abimelech, who had prophesied that fire would come out from Abimelech and consume the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo (Judges 9:20). The death of Abimelech by a millstone serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the sovereignty of God in executing judgment. The millstone, in this context, symbolizes the weight of divine retribution that fell upon Abimelech for his wickedness and ambition. This narrative underscores the biblical principle that "whatever a man sows, he will reap in return" (Galatians 6:7). The account of Abimelech and the millstone is a testament to the justice of God and His ability to use even the most unlikely means to accomplish His purposes. It also serves as a warning against the dangers of pride, ambition, and the shedding of innocent blood. Nave's Topical Index Judges 9:53And a certain woman cast a piece of a millstone on Abimelech's head, and all to broke his skull. Nave's Topical Index Resources Biblical Insights | GotQuestions.orgMiscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.org Topical: Biblical Culture ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Millstone: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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