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Book of Judges - Chapter 8 - Verse 5

8:5
And he said unto the men of Succoth, Give, I pray you, loaves of bread unto the people that follow me; for they be faint, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.

Meaning

In this verse, found in Judges 8:5, Gideon is asking the men of Succoth for help in the form of bread for his weary soldiers. The significance of this request lies in the context of the larger story of Gideon's battle against the Midianites. Gideon and his men were pursuing two Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, after a miraculous victory granted by God. Gideon's army was likely exhausted from the pursuit and in need of sustenance to continue their mission. By asking for bread from the men of Succoth, Gideon demonstrates his humility and reliance on the support of his fellow Israelites during this crucial moment. It also highlights the importance of hospitality and generosity towards those in need, even in the midst of conflict and warfare. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and community in times of struggle and emphasizes the idea of unity and solidarity among God's people.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Judges, we see Gideon asking the men of Succoth for bread for his weary soldiers as they pursue the kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna. This act of seeking aid for his men emphasizes Gideon's compassion and concern for the well-being of his followers, demonstrating his leadership qualities. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of caring for others, even in the midst of pursuing a goal or fighting a battle. It shows that kindness and generosity are essential qualities that should not be neglected, even in times of conflict or struggle. The word "faint" in this context carries both a physical and spiritual undertone, reminding us of the need to support and nourish those who are weary or discouraged in their journey. By studying the significance of this word and Gideon's actions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying message of compassion and humanity found within this passage.

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