Judges 7:20

When we read *“And the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers; and they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing, and cried, ‘A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!’”* (v.20), we see a dramatic moment executed under the command of Gideon, a judge of Israel who led his people around the mid to late 12th century BC. The verse highlights an essential part of Gideon’s strategy: dividing his men into three groups and using sound, light, and surprise to overcome a much larger opposition. Geographically, this event takes place near the Hill of Moreh in the Valley of Jezreel, a fertile area in the northern region of Israel known for significant biblical battles. Gideon, hailing from the tribe of Manasseh, had been chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppressive Midianites, and this battle was a turning point demonstrating the power of faith over numerical strength.

The phrase *they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing* (v.20) symbolizes trust in God’s plan over conventional weapons. Instead of swords and shields, Gideon’s men wielded torches and trumpets, pointing to the idea that God’s might, rather than human warfare, ultimately secures victory. This resonates with later New Testament themes where God uses what appears weak to confound the strong (NASB-95 references 1 Corinthians 1:27). The breaking of the pitchers further amplifies this message of reliance on the divine; these fragile clay jars made way for light to shine, paralleling how God’s glory is often revealed through human weaknesses.

Finally, the rallying cry *“A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!”* (v.20) unifies God’s name with Gideon’s leadership, reminding Israel that their deliverance comes from the Lord through the obedient heart of Gideon. Hebrews 11:32 includes Gideon among the faithful, underscoring the enduring importance of his role. This story foreshadows how God consistently uses humble means to accomplish His purpose—ultimately culminating in the greatest act of deliverance through Jesus Christ in the New Testament.

God achieves victory through humble obedience that shines His light into the world.