Judges 9:30
Judges 9:30 in Multiple Translations
When Zebul the governor of the city heard the words of Gaal son of Ebed, he burned with anger.
¶ And when Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled.
And when Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled.
Now Zebul, the ruler of the town, hearing what Gaal, the son of Ebed, had said, was moved to wrath.
When Zebul, the governor of the city, got to hear what Gaal was saying, he became very angry.
And when Zebul the ruler of the citie heard the wordes of Gaal the sonne of Ebed, his wrath was kindled.
And Zebul, prince of the city, heareth the words of Gaal son of Ebed, and his anger burneth,
When Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger burned.
And when Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled.
For Zebul the ruler of the city, hearing the words of Gaal, the son of Obed, was very angry,
When someone told Zebul what Gaal said, he was very angry.
Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 9:30
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Judges 9:30 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֗ע
זְבֻל֙
שַׂר
הָ/עִ֔יר
אֶת
דִּבְרֵ֖י
גַּ֣עַל
בֶּן
עָ֑בֶד
וַ/יִּ֖חַר
אַפּֽ/וֹ
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֗ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
זְבֻל֙
Zᵉbul
H2083
Zebul
N-proper
שַׂר
sar
H8269
ruler
N-ms
הָ/עִ֔יר
ʻîyr
H5892
excitement
Art | N-fs
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
דִּבְרֵ֖י
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
N-mp
גַּ֣עַל
Gaʻal
H1603
Gaal
N-proper
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
עָ֑בֶד
ʻEbed
H5651
Ebed
N-proper
וַ/יִּ֖חַר
chârâh
H2734
to be incensed
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אַפּֽ/וֹ
ʼaph
H639
face
N-ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 9:30
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֗ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
זְבֻל֙
Zᵉbul
H2083
"Zebul"
N-proper
Zebul was a chief man in the city of Shechem before Israel's Monarchy, he is mentioned in Judges 9:28. Zebul means exalted in Hebrew.
Definition: A man living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.9.28 § Zebul = "exalted" chief man of the city of Shechem at the time of the contest between Abimelech and the native Canaanites
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: Zebul. Compare H2073 (זְבוּל). See also: Judges 9:28; Judges 9:36; Judges 9:41.
שַׂר
sar
H8269
"ruler"
N-ms
A leader or person in charge, like a prince or captain, as seen in the Bible with King David and other rulers.
Definition: 1) prince, ruler, leader, chief, chieftain, official, captain 1a) chieftain, leader 1b) vassal, noble, official (under king) 1c) captain, general, commander (military) 1d) chief, head, overseer (of other official classes) 1e) heads, princes (of religious office) 1f) elders (of representative leaders of people) 1g) merchant-princes (of rank and dignity) 1h) patron-angel 1i) Ruler of rulers (of God) 1j) warden
Usage: Occurs in 368 OT verses. KJV: captain (that had rule), chief (captain), general, governor, keeper, lord,(-task-)master, prince(-ipal), ruler, steward. See also: Genesis 12:15; 1 Kings 22:32; 2 Chronicles 32:21.
הָ/עִ֔יר
ʻîyr
H5892
"excitement"
Art | N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a city or town, often a place with a wall or a watchman. It is used to describe a settlement or encampment, like the city of Ai, which is mentioned in the book of Joshua. The word is used to identify specific locations in the Bible.
Definition: 1) excitement, anguish 1a) of terror
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: Ai (from margin), city, court (from margin), town. See also: Genesis 4:17; Deuteronomy 3:6; Joshua 14:12.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
דִּבְרֵ֖י
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
N-mp
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
גַּ֣עַל
Gaʻal
H1603
"Gaal"
N-proper
Gaal was an Israelite who lived before Israel's monarchy, first mentioned in Judges 9:26, and was the son of Ebed. He helped the Shechemites rebel against Abimelech.
Definition: A man living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.9.26; son of: Ebed (H5651) § Gaal = "loathing" son of Eved who aided the Shechemites in their rebellion against Abimelech
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Gaal. See also: Judges 9:26; Judges 9:35; Judges 9:41.
בֶּן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
עָ֑בֶד
ʻEbed
H5651
"Ebed"
N-proper
Ebed was the name of two Israelites, one mentioned in Ezra 8:6 and another in the time of the judges. The name means servant, and one Ebed was the father of Gaal. The KJV translates it as Ebed.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.8.6; son of: Jonathan (H3129H) § Ebed = "servant" 1) father of Gaal in the time of the judges 2) son of Jonathan and one of the sons of Adin who returned from exile with Ezra
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: Ebed. See also: Judges 9:26; Judges 9:31; Ezra 8:6.
וַ/יִּ֖חַר
chârâh
H2734
"to be incensed"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To be incensed means to be very angry or furious, like a fire burning. It describes strong emotions like anger, zeal, or jealousy, and is used to express intense feelings in the Bible.
Definition: 1) to be hot, furious, burn, becomeangry, be kindled 1a) (Qal) to burn, kindle (anger) 1b) (Niphal) to be angry with, be incensed 1c) (Hiphil) to burn, kindle 1d) (Hithpael) to heat oneself in vexation
Usage: Occurs in 87 OT verses. KJV: be angry, burn, be displeased, [idiom] earnestly, fret self, grieve, be (wax) hot, be incensed, kindle, [idiom] very, be wroth. See H8474 (תַּחָרָה). See also: Genesis 4:5; 1 Samuel 15:11; Psalms 18:8.
אַפּֽ/וֹ
ʼaph
H639
"face"
N-ms | Suff
This Hebrew word can mean face, but also anger or nose. It is used to describe someone's countenance or emotions, like anger or patience. In the Bible, it appears in various contexts, including descriptions of God's emotions.
Definition: : face 1) nostril, nose, face 2) anger
Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: anger(-gry), [phrase] before, countenance, face, [phrase] forebearing, forehead, [phrase] (long-) suffering, nose, nostril, snout, [idiom] worthy, wrath. See also: Genesis 2:7; Nehemiah 8:6; Psalms 2:5.
Study Notes — Judges 9:30
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — The Fall of Shechem
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!’”
30When Zebul the governor of the city heard the words of Gaal son of Ebed, he burned with anger.
31So he covertly sent messengers to Abimelech to say, “Look, Gaal son of Ebed and his brothers have come to Shechem and are stirring up the city against you. 32Now then, tonight you and the people with you are to come and lie in wait in the fields.Judges 9:30 Summary
This verse tells us that Zebul, the governor of the city, became very angry when he heard Gaal speaking against Abimelech. Zebul's anger was likely because he was loyal to Abimelech and saw Gaal's words as a threat to his authority, similar to how we are called to respect and submit to those in authority over us, as seen in Romans 13:1-7. As we reflect on this verse, we can think about how we respond to situations that make us angry or uncomfortable, and how we can seek to respond in a way that honors God, as seen in Proverbs 14:29 and James 1:19-20. By considering Zebul's response, we can learn more about the importance of self-control and wisdom in our own lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Zebul become angry when he heard Gaal's words?
Zebul became angry because Gaal was speaking against Abimelech, whom Zebul served, and was stirring up the city of Shechem against him, as seen in Judges 9:28-29. This kind of rebellion and disloyalty can be seen in other parts of the Bible, such as in 1 Samuel 15:23, where rebellion is compared to witchcraft.
Who was Zebul and what was his role in the city?
Zebul was the governor of the city of Shechem, and he served under Abimelech, as mentioned in Judges 9:30. His role was likely similar to that of other governors in the Bible, such as those in Deuteronomy 1:15, who were responsible for overseeing and administering the affairs of their cities.
How did Zebul's anger affect his actions?
Zebul's anger led him to take action against Gaal, as he covertly sent messengers to Abimelech to inform him of Gaal's words and actions, as seen in Judges 9:31. This kind of response to anger can be seen in other parts of the Bible, such as in Proverbs 14:29, where it is advised to be slow to anger.
What can we learn from Zebul's response to Gaal's words?
We can learn that our responses to situations should be guided by wisdom and a desire to do what is right, rather than simply reacting out of emotions like anger, as seen in James 1:19-20. We should also be mindful of the impact our words and actions can have on others, as seen in Ephesians 4:29-32.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can be more mindful of my own emotions and responses to challenging situations, and how can I seek to respond in a way that honors God?
- How can I balance the need to stand up for what is right with the need to avoid stirring up conflict or rebellion, as seen in Romans 12:18 and Matthew 5:9?
- What are some ways that I can cultivate a sense of loyalty and commitment to those in authority over me, as seen in Romans 13:1-7 and Hebrews 13:17?
- How can I be more aware of the impact my words and actions can have on others, and how can I seek to use my influence to build up and encourage those around me, as seen in Ephesians 4:29-32 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11?
Gill's Exposition on Judges 9:30
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
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 9:30
And when Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 9:30
It seems he had temporized and complied with the people’ s humour and plot against Abimelech, either in dissimulation and design, and by Abimelech’ s connivance or advice, or really; but when he heard Gaal’ s words, and himself traduced and struck at by them, he changed his mind, repented of his defection from Abimelech, and intended to return himself, and to bring the people again to the obedience of their lord and king.
Trapp's Commentary on Judges 9:30
Judges 9:30 And when Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled.Ver. 30. His anger was kindled,] sc., To hear his lord and himself so slighted and debased: there being nothing that man’ s nature is more impatient of than contempt; for a reproachful scorn showeth an utter disrespect, which issueth from the very superfluity of malice.
Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 9:30
(30) The ruler of the city.—The word sar seems to imply that he was the military commandant.
Cambridge Bible on Judges 9:30
30. Zebul the ruler of the city] He ruled as the representative of Abimelech; cf. for the title (sar) 1 Kings 22:26, 2 Kings 23:8. He had no force at his disposal; all he could do was to warn his master of Gaal’s treason and advise an immediate attack.