Judges 6:22
Gideon, who served as one of Israel’s judges during the era when the nation often fell into subjugation by foreign powers (roughly between 1200–1100 BC), has a moment of profound realization in Judges 6:22. In the text, we read, *“When Gideon saw that he was the angel of the LORD, he said, ‘Alas, O Lord GOD! For now I have seen the angel of the LORD face to face.’”* (v.22). Gideon’s recognition that he has encountered a divine messenger highlights his awareness of the holiness of God’s presence—an awareness often accompanied by fear in the Old Testament (as seen in Isaiah 6:5). This pivotal moment marks a turning point in Gideon’s calling to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites, illustrating God’s personal involvement and sovereign hand in choosing and empowering leaders.
The reference to “the angel of the LORD” conveys both mystery and awe. Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, this phrase can point to moments of divine intervention in Israel’s history. Gideon’s terror, expressed as *“Alas, O Lord GOD!”* (v.22), underscores his realization that encountering God or His messenger carries tremendous significance. In an era when the physical manifestation of God’s presence was regarded with deep reverence—and often fear for one’s life—Gideon’s exclamation reveals genuine humility and dependence on the Lord. Centuries later, followers of Jesus would echo a similar response when witnessing His miracles, recognizing God’s power at work in their midst (Luke 5:8, NASB-95).
Gideon’s response also prepares him for the next stages of his mission. The trembling recognition of divine authority energizes him for obedience and fortifies his trust in God’s guidance. Much like other biblical figures who experienced holy fear (for example, John in Revelation 1:17, NASB-95), Gideon stands on the threshold of transformation. This passage reassures readers that God not only hears the cries of His people but also intervenes personally, equipping individuals who feel inadequate for the tasks set before them.
Gideon is momentarily overwhelmed by divine presence, but God uses this encounter as a catalyst for Gideon’s faith and leadership.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Judges 1:22-26 meaning. The tribes Ephraim and Manasseh, with the Lord’s assistance, goes up against Bethel, previously known as Luz. They use a local man to find the city’s entrance, conquer Bethel, and spare the man’s family. The man then relocates to the land of the Hittites, where he builds a new city and names it Luz.
- Matthew 6:25-32 meaning. Jesus teaches His disciples to trust in God to meet their needs and not live their lives worrying.
- Judges 5:1-5 meaning. The song of Deborah and Barak is a victory hymn celebrating God’s deliverance of Israel from the oppression of the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera. This song praises the leadership of Israel’s volunteers, glorifies the Lord’s mighty acts in battle, and recalls God’s past interventions in Israel’s history, worshiping His sovereignty and power over creation.