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Judges 8:15

*He came to the men of Succoth and said, “Behold Zebah and Zalmunna, concerning whom you taunted me, saying, ‘Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna already in your hand, that we should give bread to your men who are weary?’”* (Judges 8:15). In this verse, Gideon—who served as a judge (or deliverer) of Israel around the late 12th or early 11th century BC—confronts the leaders of Succoth, a settlement likely located east of the Jordan River near the Jabbok. Rather than helping Gideon’s weary troops as they pursued the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna, the men of Succoth had refused to give them bread. Gideon now displays tangible proof of victory: he has captured the very kings whose defeat the men of Succoth had doubted. Their refusal to assist Gideon and his men was not only an act of distrust in God’s appointed deliverer, but a disregard for God’s intervention on behalf of Israel (see how Gideon’s calling from the Angel of the Lord revealed his role as “mighty man of valor” in Judges 6:12 citeturn0file18).

By capturing Zebah and Zalmunna, Gideon completes the divine plan to free Israel from oppression, echoing how God called him to rescue His people amid dire circumstances (Judges 6:14). Previously, Midian’s raids had impoverished Israel, forcing them to hide in caves and thresh wheat secretly lest the Midianites seize their produce or livestock citeturn0file18. When Gideon asked Succoth for help, the leaders refused through skepticism and fear, demonstrating a lack of faith that God would grant victory over the Midianites. Now, Gideon’s return with the two kings humiliates those who doubted God’s empowering presence.

Because Succoth’s leaders rejected the opportunity to partner in God’s deliverance, Gideon rebukes them directly. This confrontation underscores that the Lord holds His people accountable when they neglect those in need—especially those engaged in His service. Succoth had every chance to act compassionately, feed God’s faithful warriors, and share in Israel’s victory, yet they missed this blessing through distrust and self-preservation.

Gideon’s chastisement of Succoth highlights the call for God’s people to trust His promises and show hospitality toward those who labor for the good of the community.

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 1:8-10 meaning. The sons of Judah capture Jerusalem, defeating its inhabitants and setting the city on fire. They then continue their campaign against the Canaanites in various regions, ultimately conquering Hebron and defeating its notable inhabitants, Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai.
  • Judges 3:15-25 meaning. In response to Israel’s cry for help, God raises up Ehud, a Benjamite, as a deliverer. Using a clever and daring strategy, Ehud assassinates Eglon, the oppressive king of Moab, motivating Israel’s return to the Lord.
  • Judges 3:7-8 meaning. The Israelites once again fall into idolatry, worshiping the Baals and Asheroth. As a result, God allows them to be oppressed by Cushan-rishathaim, the king of Mesopotamia, for eight years.

Judges 8:15