Judges 6:38
*“And it was so. When he arose early the next morning and squeezed the fleece, he drained the dew from the fleece, a bowl full of water.”* (v.38)
In this verse, Gideon, who served as a judge over Israel around the 12th or 11th century BC, has placed a wool fleece on the threshing floor and asked God for a dramatic sign to confirm that he is truly called to lead Israel against the Midianites. When *he arose early the next morning and squeezed the fleece*, the water filled an entire *bowl*. Geographically, this event likely took place near Ophrah in the tribal region of Manasseh, on the western side of the Jordan River. Gideon is remembered for facing a large Midianite force with only 300 men, an example cited in Hebrews for his faith (Hebrews 11:32) citeturn0file2.
The miracle of the dew soaking the fleece but leaving the surrounding ground dry highlights God’s gracious response to Gideon’s cautious heart. Israel was in a cycle of disobedience and repentance, repeatedly rescued by judges whom God raised up (Judges 2). Gideon’s sign-seeking reflects the uncertain conditions of that time, as he needed reassurance that God had truly chosen him to deliver the nation. God’s patient willingness to grant Gideon’s request here anticipates the even greater triumph that would come when Gideon finally led the Israelite forces against their enemies.
Gideon’s test with the fleece may also demonstrate that God does not despise seeking confirmation of His will, especially in times of turmoil. In this ancient era of Israel’s history, such signs strengthened the people’s trust in their covenant God. Gideon’s faith, though initially hesitant, ultimately led Israel to victory, placing him among the faithful heroes praised in the New Testament (Hebrews 11:32) citeturn0file2.
God affirmed Gideon’s call by soaking the fleece with dew, confirming His power and graciously strengthening Gideon’s faith for the battles ahead.
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 5:19-23 meaning. In the final part of the song of Deborah and Barak, they continue to celebrate Israel's victory over the Canaanite oppressors. The narrative shifts to a poetic description of the battle and the divine intervention that led to Israel's triumph.
- Acts 13:38-43 meaning. Paul explains that through faith in Jesus, anyone who believes will be forgiven of their sins and freed from the power of sin in their lives. Through Jesus we are seen as righteous in God’s sight. Paul warns his listeners to believe, lest they suffer God’s wrath toward those who scoff at Him. Paul’s audience begs Barnabas and him to return a week later to preach again. Paul encourages the Galatians in their new faith.
- Hosea 6:7-11 meaning. The LORD ends this chapter with an illustration of covenant infidelity committed by both Israel and Judah.