And Gideon said, Therefore when the LORD hath delivered Zebah and Zalmunna into mine hand, then I will tear your flesh with the thorns of the wilderness and with briers.
And Gideon said, 'Therefore, when the LORD gives me victory over Zebah and Zalmunna, I will punish you by tearing your flesh with desert thorns and sharp briars.'
Gideon is promising severe punishment to those who refused to help him, vowing to use thorny plants to inflict pain once God gives him victory.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during Gideon's pursuit of the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna after his initial victory. The men of Succoth had refused to provide food for Gideon's exhausted army, claiming he hadn't yet captured the kings. Gideon's harsh threat reflects the brutal realities of ancient warfare and the expectation that fellow Israelites should support each other against common enemies.
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