Judges 9:29

Verse

If only this people were under my authority, I would remove Abimelech; I would say to him, ‘Muster your army and come out!’”

American Standard Version (1901)

And would that this people were under my hand! then would I remove Abimelech. And he said to Abimelech, Increase thine army, and come out.

Bible in Basic English

If only I had authority over this people! I would put Abimelech out of the way, and I would say to Abimelech, Make your army strong, and come out.

Free Bible Version

If I was the one in charge of you people, I would dispose of Abimelech! I would tell him, ‘Get your army together, and come and fight!’”

Geneva Bible 1599

Now would God this people were vnder mine hand: then would I put away Abimelech. And he said to Abimelech, Increase thine army, and come out.

King James (Authorized) Version

And would to God this people were under my hand! then would I remove Abimelech. And he said to Abimelech, Increase thine army, and come out.

Translation for Translators

If you would appoint me to be your leader, I would get rid of Abimelech. I would say to him, ‘Get your army ready, and then come to fight us!’”

Unlocked Literal Bible

I wish that this people were under my command! Then would I remove Abimelech. I would say to Abimelech, 'Call out all your army.'”

Noah Webster Bible

And would that this people were under my hand! then would I remove Abimelech. And he said to Abimelech, Increase thy army, and come out.

World English Bible

I wish that this people were under my hand! Then I would remove Abimelech.” He said to Abimelech, “Increase your army and come out!”

Young's Literal Translation

and oh that this people were in my hand — then I turn Abimelech aside;' and he saith to Abimelech, 'Increase thy host, and come out.'

Context

Gaal Conspires with the Shechemites

²⁸Then Gaal son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Is he not the son of Jerubbaal, and is not Zebul his officer? You are to serve the men of Hamor, the father of Shechem. Why should we serve Abimelech? ²⁹If only this people were under my authority, I would remove Abimelech; I would say to him, ‘Muster your army and come out!’”

Summary

This verse depicts the violent consequences of Abimelech's reign as king, as he seeks to establish his authority through bloodshed and destruction. It reveals the destructive nature of power gained through treachery and violence, highlighting the tragic outcomes of pursuing selfish ambitions at the expense of others. The verse serves as a cautionary tale against the misuse of power and the consequences of seeking control through immoral means. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of righteous leadership and the dangers of tyranny and oppression.

Commentary

John Gill

John Gill Bible Commentary

And when Zebul the ruler of the city,.... Whom Abimelech had placed there under him: heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled; because he spoke slightly of him, and wished to have his place; perhaps before Zebul was inclined to be on the side of the Shechemites against Abimelech, or at least dissembled that he was; but now, being incensed at the words of Gaal, determined to take the side of Abimelech, and let him know how things were carrying on against him.