And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put them to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.
So all the people also cut down branches, just like Abimelech had done, and followed him. They piled the branches against the stronghold and set it on fire with the people inside. This is how all the people in the tower of Shechem died, about a thousand men and women.
This verse describes how Abimelech and his followers burned down a fortress, killing about a thousand people who had taken refuge inside.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Judges, Abimelech, the son of Gideon, had usurped power by killing his seventy brothers and declaring himself king over Shechem, which led to growing unrest and rebellion among the people. This verse describes a climactic moment in his violent campaign, where he and his followers cut branches to set fire to the tower of Shechem as an act of retribution against those who opposed him. The event highlights the brutal cycles of power struggles and civil war common in ancient Israel during the time of the judges.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.