And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of the Midianites the children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds.
The Midianites became so powerful that they oppressed Israel. Because of the Midianites' attacks, the Israelites had to hide in mountain caves, dens, and fortified places for protection.
The writer is showing how the Israelites were so oppressed by their enemies that they had to hide in caves and mountains just to survive.
📚 Historical Context
This verse describes a dark period in Israel's history when the Midianites, a nomadic desert people, regularly invaded Israel during harvest time to steal their crops and livestock. This oppression lasted seven years and left the Israelites impoverished and desperate. The cycle of Israel's disobedience, followed by God's judgment through foreign oppression, was a recurring pattern during the time of the judges.
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