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
In the Book of Judges, Gideon was a judge raised up by God to lead Israel against the Midianites who had been oppressing them for years through raids and plunder. After a miraculous victory with a small army, Gideon was pursuing the Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, and when the people of Succoth refused to provide food for his exhausted troops, he issued this stern warning as a response to their lack of support. This reflects the brutal realities of ancient tribal warfare, where loyalty and hospitality were crucial for survival in a harsh, honor-based society.
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