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Book of Judges - Chapter 9 - Verse 21

9:21
And Jotham ran away, and fled, and went to Beer, and dwelt there, for fear of Abimelech his brother.

Meaning

After Jotham's father, Gideon, died, his brother Abimelech seized power by killing the other sons of Gideon. Jotham, in fear of his own life, fled from his brother and sought refuge in the city of Beer. This event is recorded in the Book of Judges, a part of the Old Testament that depicts the cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance in the history of Israel. Jotham's escape highlights the dangers and struggles faced by the leaders and people of Israel during this turbulent period. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of power struggles and the importance of seeking refuge and protection in times of trouble. By fleeing to Beer, Jotham demonstrated wisdom and self-preservation as he navigated the dangerous political landscape of his time. This verse illustrates the complex family dynamics and political intrigue that characterized the period of the Judges in ancient Israel.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse could highlight the theme of fear and the consequences of family strife. Jotham's decision to flee and go into hiding in Beer out of fear of his brother Abimelech reflects the tension and discord within their family. This act of running away can be seen as a reflection of how fear can drive individuals to make choices that may not be in their best interests. From a theological standpoint, this verse could serve as a reminder of the destructive power of fear and the importance of seeking reconciliation and peace within family relationships. Additionally, a word study on the name "Beer" could reveal its significance in the context of this verse, as it may hold symbolic meaning or historical relevance that sheds light on Jotham's actions and mindset during this time of fear and conflict.

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