Judges 9:5
Judges 9:5 in Multiple Translations
He went to his father’s house in Ophrah, and on one stone murdered his seventy brothers, the sons of Jerubbaal. But Jotham, the youngest son of Jerubbaal, survived, because he hid himself.
And he went unto his father’s house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.
And he went unto his father’s house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: but Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.
Then he went to his father's house at Ophrah, and put his brothers, the seventy sons of Jerubbaal, to death on the same stone; however, Jotham, the youngest, kept himself safe by going away to a secret place.
He went to his father's house in Ophrah, and on one stone killed his seventy half-brothers, the sons of Jerub-baal. But Jotham, Jerub-baal's youngest son, escaped by going into hiding.
And he went vnto his fathers house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren, the sonnes of Ierubbaal, about seuentie persons vpon one stone: yet Iotham the yongest sonne of Ierubbaal was left: for he hid himselfe.
and he goeth into the house of his father at Ophrah, and slayeth his brethren, sons of Jerubbaal, seventy men, on one stone; and Jotham, youngest son of Jerubbaal, is left, for he was hidden.
He went to his father’s house at Ophrah, and killed his brothers the sons of Jerubbaal, being seventy persons, on one stone; but Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left, for he hid himself.
And he went to his father's house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being seventy persons, upon one stone; notwithstanding, yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.
And he came to his father’s house in Ephra, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerobaal, seventy men, upon one stone: and there remained only Joatham the youngest son of Jerobaal, who was hidden.
They went to Ophrah, his father’s town, and murdered 69 of his 70 brothers, the sons of his father Gideon. They killed all those men on one huge rock. But Gideon’s youngest son Jotham hid from Abimelech and his men, and he escaped.
Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 9:5
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 9:5 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יָּבֹ֤א
בֵית
אָבִי/ו֙
עָפְרָ֔תָ/ה
וַֽ/יַּהֲרֹ֞ג
אֶת
אֶחָ֧י/ו
בְּנֵֽי
יְרֻבַּ֛עַל
שִׁבְּעִ֥ים
אִ֖ישׁ
עַל
אֶ֣בֶן
אֶחָ֑ת
וַ/יִּוָּתֵ֞ר
יוֹתָ֧ם
בֶּן
יְרֻבַּ֛עַל
הַ/קָּטֹ֖ן
כִּ֥י
נֶחְבָּֽא
וַ/יָּבֹ֤א
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
בֵית
bayith
H1004
place
N-ms
אָבִי/ו֙
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
עָפְרָ֔תָ/ה
ʻOphrâh
H6084
Ophrah
N-proper | Suff
וַֽ/יַּהֲרֹ֞ג
hârag
H2026
to kill
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אֶחָ֧י/ו
ʼâch
H251
brother
N-mp | Suff
בְּנֵֽי
bên
H1121
son
N-mp
יְרֻבַּ֛עַל
Yᵉrubbaʻal
H3378
Jerubbaal
N-proper
שִׁבְּעִ֥ים
shibʻîym
H7657
seventy
Adj
אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
אֶ֣בֶן
ʼeben
H68
stone
N-fs
אֶחָ֑ת
ʼechâd
H259
one
Adj
וַ/יִּוָּתֵ֞ר
yâthar
H3498
to remain
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יוֹתָ֧ם
Yôwthâm
H3147
Jotham
N-proper
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
יְרֻבַּ֛עַל
Yᵉrubbaʻal
H3378
Jerubbaal
N-proper
הַ/קָּטֹ֖ן
qâṭân
H6996
small
Art | Adj
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
נֶחְבָּֽא
châbâʼ
H2244
to hide
V-Niphal-Perf-3ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 9:5
וַ/יָּבֹ֤א
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
בֵית
bayith
H1004
"place"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
אָבִי/ו֙
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
עָפְרָ֔תָ/ה
ʻOphrâh
H6084
"Ophrah"
N-proper | Suff
Ophrah is a place in the Bible and also the name of a man from the tribe of Judah, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:14. His name means fawn.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.4.14; son of: Meonothai (H4587) § Ophrah = "fawn" a Judaite, son of Meonothai
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Ophrah. See also: Joshua 18:23; Judges 8:32; 1 Chronicles 4:14.
וַֽ/יַּהֲרֹ֞ג
hârag
H2026
"to kill"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To kill or slay with intent, as seen in the Bible when God instructs the Israelites to destroy certain nations. This word is used in various forms, including to murder or destroy. It appears in books like Exodus and Deuteronomy.
Definition: 1) to kill, slay, murder, destroy, murderer, slayer, out of hand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to kill, slay 1a2) to destroy, ruin 1b) (Niphal) to be killed 1c) (Pual) to be killed, be slain
Usage: Occurs in 158 OT verses. KJV: destroy, out of hand, kill, murder(-er), put to (death), make (slaughter), slay(-er), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 4:8; 2 Kings 8:12; Psalms 10:8.
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.
אֶחָ֧י/ו
ʼâch
H251
"brother"
N-mp | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.
Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.
בְּנֵֽי
bên
H1121
"son"
N-mp
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.
יְרֻבַּ֛עַל
Yᵉrubbaʻal
H3378
"Jerubbaal"
N-proper
Jerubbaal means let Baal contend, a name given to Gideon after he destroyed an altar. It appears in Judges 6:11 and 32. Gideon's father gave him this name.
Definition: A man living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.6.11; son of: Joash (H3101); father of: Jether (H3500), Abimelech (H0040H) and Jotham (H3147); also called Jerubbaal at Jdg.6.32; 7.1; 8.29,35; 9.1,2,5,16,19,24,28,57; 1xJerubbesheth at 2Sa.11.21; Another name of gid.on (גִּדְעוֹן "Gideon" H1439) § Jerubbaal = "let Baal contend" name given to Gideon by his father when he destroyed the altar of Baal
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: Jerubbaal. See also: Judges 6:32; Judges 9:5; 1 Samuel 12:11.
שִׁבְּעִ֥ים
shibʻîym
H7657
"seventy"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means the number seventy, like the seventy disciples Jesus sent out in Luke 10:1. It appears in phrases like threescore and ten. The KJV Bible uses it to describe groups of seventy people.
Definition: seventy
Usage: Occurs in 90 OT verses. KJV: seventy, threescore and ten ([phrase] -teen). See also: Genesis 4:24; Judges 9:2; Psalms 90:10.
אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
אֶ֣בֶן
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.
Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.
אֶחָ֑ת
ʼechâd
H259
"one"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.
Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)
Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.
וַ/יִּוָּתֵ֞ר
yâthar
H3498
"to remain"
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms
The Hebrew word 'yâthar' means to remain or be left, and can also mean to excel or have more than enough, often translated as 'remain' or 'preserve'.
Definition: 1) to be left over, remain, remain over, leave 1a) (Qal) remainder (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to be left over, remain over, be left behind 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to leave over, leave 1c2) to save over, preserve alive 1c3) to excel, show pre-eminence 1c4) to show excess, have more than enough, have an excess
Usage: Occurs in 101 OT verses. KJV: excel, leave (a remnant), left behind, too much, make plenteous, preserve, (be, let) remain(-der, -ing, -nant), reserve, residue, rest. See also: Genesis 30:36; 2 Samuel 9:1; Psalms 79:11.
יוֹתָ֧ם
Yôwthâm
H3147
"Jotham"
N-proper
Jotham means Jehovah is perfect, the name of three Israelites, including a king of Judah and a son of Caleb. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and was a contemporary of Isaiah. Jotham was a king of Judah for 16 years.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.2.47; son of Caleb (H3612H) and Jahdai (H3056); brother of: Regem (H7276), Geshan (H1529), Pelet (H6404), Ephah (H5891I) and Shaaph (H8174) § Jotham = "Jehovah is perfect" 1) son of king Uzziah of Judah by Jerushah; king of Judah for 16 years and contemporary with Isaiah and king Pekah of Israel 2) son of Jahdai and a descendant of Caleb and Judah 3) youngest son of Gideon who escaped from the massacre of his brothers
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: Jotham. See also: Judges 9:5; 1 Chronicles 3:12; Isaiah 1:1.
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.
יְרֻבַּ֛עַל
Yᵉrubbaʻal
H3378
"Jerubbaal"
N-proper
Jerubbaal means let Baal contend, a name given to Gideon after he destroyed an altar. It appears in Judges 6:11 and 32. Gideon's father gave him this name.
Definition: A man living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.6.11; son of: Joash (H3101); father of: Jether (H3500), Abimelech (H0040H) and Jotham (H3147); also called Jerubbaal at Jdg.6.32; 7.1; 8.29,35; 9.1,2,5,16,19,24,28,57; 1xJerubbesheth at 2Sa.11.21; Another name of gid.on (גִּדְעוֹן "Gideon" H1439) § Jerubbaal = "let Baal contend" name given to Gideon by his father when he destroyed the altar of Baal
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: Jerubbaal. See also: Judges 6:32; Judges 9:5; 1 Samuel 12:11.
הַ/קָּטֹ֖ן
qâṭân
H6996
"small"
Art | Adj
This Hebrew word means something or someone small in size, amount, or importance. It can describe something as little or least, and is often used to convey a sense of youth or insignificance. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: young, small, unimportant Another spelling of qa.ton (קָטֹן ": small" H6996B)
Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: least, less(-er), little (one), small(-est, one, quantity, thing), young(-er, -est). See also: Genesis 1:16; 1 Kings 22:31; Psalms 104:25.
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
נֶחְבָּֽא
châbâʼ
H2244
"to hide"
V-Niphal-Perf-3ms
To hide means to secrete or withdraw, often for safety or protection. In the Bible, this word is used to describe hiding oneself or being forced into hiding. It appears in various forms, including to hide oneself or to be hidden by someone else.
Definition: 1) to withdraw, hide 1a) (Niphal) to hide oneself 1b) (Pual) to be forced into hiding 1c) (Hiphil) to hide 1d) (Hophal) to be hidden 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to hide oneself, draw back 1e2) to draw together, thicken, harden
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] held, hide (self), do secretly. See also: Genesis 3:8; 1 Kings 18:4; Isaiah 42:22.
Study Notes — Judges 9:5
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Context — Abimelech’s Conspiracy
3And when his mother’s brothers spoke all these words about him in the presence of all the leaders of Shechem, their hearts were inclined to follow Abimelech, for they said, “He is our brother.”
4So they gave him seventy shekels of silver from the temple of Baal-berith, with which Abimelech hired some worthless and reckless men to follow him.
5He went to his father’s house in Ophrah, and on one stone murdered his seventy brothers, the sons of Jerubbaal. But Jotham, the youngest son of Jerubbaal, survived, because he hid himself.
6Then all the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo gathered beside the oak at the pillar in Shechem and proceeded to make Abimelech their king. 7When this was reported to Jotham, he climbed to the top of Mount Gerizim, raised his voice, and cried out: “Listen to me, O leaders of Shechem, and may God listen to you.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Kings 11:1–2 | When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she proceeded to annihilate all the royal heirs. But Jehosheba daughter of King Joram, the sister of Ahaziah, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the sons of the king who were being murdered. She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah, and he was not killed. |
| 2 | 2 Chronicles 21:4 | When Jehoram had established himself over his father’s kingdom, he strengthened himself by putting to the sword all his brothers along with some of the princes of Israel. |
| 3 | Judges 6:24 | So Gideon built an altar to the LORD there and called it The LORD Is Peace. To this day it stands in Ophrah of the Abiezrites. |
| 4 | Matthew 2:16 | When Herod saw that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was filled with rage. Sending orders, he put to death all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, according to the time he had learned from the Magi. |
| 5 | Judges 9:2 | “Please ask all the leaders of Shechem, ‘Is it better for you that seventy men, all the sons of Jerubbaal, rule over you, or just one man?’ Remember that I am your own flesh and blood.” |
| 6 | 2 Kings 10:17 | When Jehu came to Samaria, he struck down everyone belonging to Ahab who remained there, until he had destroyed them, according to the word that the LORD had spoken to Elijah. |
| 7 | Judges 8:30 | Gideon had seventy sons of his own, since he had many wives. |
| 8 | Matthew 2:20 | “Get up!” he said. “Take the Child and His mother and go to the land of Israel, for those seeking the Child’s life are now dead.” |
Judges 9:5 Summary
In Judges 9:5, Abimelech kills his seventy brothers to become the leader of Shechem, but his youngest brother Jotham escapes. This event shows how sinful and violent the Israelites had become, doing what was right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25). It also highlights the dangers of seeking power and control at any cost, as warned against in Proverbs 1:10-19. As we reflect on this verse, we can learn to trust in God's providence and timing, rather than taking matters into our own hands (Psalm 37:7).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Abimelech kill his seventy brothers in Judges 9:5?
Abimelech killed his brothers to eliminate any potential rivals and consolidate his power, as seen in his desire to become the leader of Shechem, similar to the actions of Cain in Genesis 4:8 who killed his brother Abel out of jealousy and a desire for supremacy.
What can we learn from the fact that Jotham, the youngest son, was the only one to survive?
Jotham's survival can be seen as a providential act of God, similar to the way God protected Isaac in Genesis 22:11-12, and it sets the stage for Jotham's later actions as a voice of wisdom and warning in Judges 9:7-21.
How does this event relate to the broader theme of Judges?
The violent and power-hungry actions of Abimelech in Judges 9:5 reflect the chaotic and sinful state of the Israelites during the period of the judges, as described in Judges 21:25, where 'everyone did what was right in their own eyes'.
What does this verse reveal about Abimelech's character?
Abimelech's actions in Judges 9:5 demonstrate his ruthless and power-hungry nature, which is reminiscent of the warning in Proverbs 1:10-19 about the dangers of associating with violent and wicked people.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I may be seeking power or control in my own life, and how can I surrender those desires to God?
- How can I be like Jotham, hiding myself in God's presence and waiting for His timing, rather than taking matters into my own hands?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be compromising my values or morals in order to achieve my goals, and how can I realign myself with God's will?
- How can I use my voice, like Jotham, to speak truth and wisdom to those around me, even if it's difficult or unpopular?
Gill's Exposition on Judges 9:5
And he went to his father's house at Ophrah,.... Which, according to Bunting (a), was ten miles from Shechem: and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being seventy persons, upon one stone: in
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 9:5
And he went unto his father's house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 9:5
The sons of Jerubbaal; the only persons who were likely to hinder him in establishing his tyranny. Threescore and ten persons; wanting one, who is here expressed; and these synecdochical expressions are frequent in Scripture: see 42:13 ,3 . Upon one stone; whereby he would signify that this was either, 1. An act of justice, in cutting them all off in an orderly manner, for some supposed crime probably as designing sedition and rebellion; or, 2. An act of religion, in avenging the dishonour and injury done to Baal by Gideon, ,28, upon his children, whom he offered up as so many sacrifices to Baal upon this stone, which served for an altar; and for this reason it seems the money was taken out of Baal’ s house, because it was to be laid out in his service.
Trapp's Commentary on Judges 9:5
Judges 9:5 And he went unto his father’ s house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, [being] threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.Ver. 5. And slew his brethren.] So did afterwards Joram, the degenerate son of good Jehoshaphat; Romulus, first king of Rome; Jugurtha, king of tbe Numidians; and so doth the great Turk to this day, so soon as he cometh to the kingdom, that he may have no competitors. Upon one stone.] Whereon, likely, they laid down their necks, and had their heads stricken off, under some pretence of justice, as if they had conspired against him, or against the state. Howsoever, Abimelech, knowing that it was no good policy to play the villain by half-deal, was resolved to suffer never a rub to lie in the way that might hinder the true running of his bowl.
Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 9:5
(5) And he went unto his father’s house at Ophrah.—Probably, like Absalom, he seized the opportunity of some local or family feast at which all his brethren would be assembled (2 Samuel 13:23); it may even have been the anniversary of Gideon’s vision. Slew his brethren . . .—This is the first mention in Scripture of the hideous custom, which is so common among all Oriental despots, of anticipating conspiracies by destroying all their brothers and near kinsmen. (Comp. Pope, Epistle to Arbuthnot: “Bear, like the Turk, no brother near the throne.”) There is little affection and much jealousy in polygamous households. Abimelech by this vile wickedness set a fatal precedent, which was followed again and again in the kingdom of Israel by Baasha (1 Kings 15:29), Zimri (1 Kings 16:11), Jehu (2 Kings 10:7), and probably by other kings (2 Kings 15); and by Athaliah (2 Kings 11:1) in the kingdom of Judah. Herod also put to death most of his kinsmen, and some of his sons (see Life of Christ, i. 43). Seneca says, “Nec regna socium ferre, nec taedae sciunt”—nor realms nor weddings admit a sharer (Agam. 259). Threescore and ten persons.—Jotham is counted in this number. Upon one stone.—Perhaps on the rock on which was built Gideon’s altar; at any rate, by some formal execution. How ruthlessly these murders were carried out we see from 2 Kings 10:7, and from many events in Eastern history.
On one occasion, at a banquet in Damascus. Abdallah-Ebn-Ali murdered no less than ninety of the rival dynasty of the Ommiades.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Judges 9:5
Verse 5. Slew his brethren] His brothers by the father's side, Judges 8:30. This was a usual way of securing an ill-gotten throne; the person who had no right destroying all those that had right, that he might have no competitors. Yet Jotham - was left] That is, all the seventy were killed except Jotham, if there were not seventy besides Jotham. All the histories of all the nations of the earth are full of cruelties similar to those of Abimelech: cousins, uncles, brothers, husbands, and fathers have been murdered by their cousins, nephews, brothers, wives, and children, in order that they might have the undisturbed possession of an ill-gotten throne. Europe, Asia, and Africa, can witness all this. Even now, some of these horribly obtained governments exist.
Cambridge Bible on Judges 9:5
5. upon one stone] as if they were sacrificial victims (cf. 1 Samuel 14:33 f.); perhaps also to avoid promiscuous blood-shed. For this Oriental manner of inaugurating a new reign cf. 2 Kings 10:1 ff; 2 Kings 11:1. Jotham escaped, like Joash 2 Kings 11:2.
Barnes' Notes on Judges 9:5
Such wholesale slaughters have always been common in Eastern monarchies, and are among the fruits of polygamy.
Whedon's Commentary on Judges 9:5
5. Upon one stone — That is, he made his brethren prisoners, and then led them out, and subjected them to a formal execution all at one place and time.
Sermons on Judges 9:5
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Joash the Boy King by C.I. Scofield | C.I. Scofield delves into the story of Athaliah's wicked reign, highlighting the evil deed of destroying her own grandchildren and the wise measures taken by Jehoiada to protect Jo |
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The Name of Jehovah by Chuck Smith | This sermon focuses on the significance of the name Jehovah as a strong tower where the righteous can find safety and refuge. It delves into various compound names of Jehovah found |
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The Name of the Lord by Brian Brodersen | This sermon delves into the progressive revelation of God's name throughout the Old Testament, culminating in the person of Jesus Christ. Each revelation of God's name signifies a |
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Names of God by Robert F. Adcock | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on divine resources in times of distress. He shares a story about a missionary couple who found themselves surroun |
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Sin by W.F. Anderson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the universal nature of sin and the need for individuals to acknowledge their sinful state. He highlights that the Bible is the only book th |
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The Feasts and the Names by Arno Clemens Gaebelein | Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the significance of the seven yearly feasts commanded by the Lord to His people Israel, which not only held historical and worship importance |
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First Day: "The Lord Is My shepherd." by J. Wilbur Chapman | J. Wilbur Chapman emphasizes the reverence the Israelites had for the name of Jehovah in the Old Testament, speaking it only once a year in the most holy place. He encourages the c |