Gideon's 300 and the Defeat of Midian
Judges 7:1-25
Jud.7.1 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וישכם: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- ירבעל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- ויחנו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- על: PREP
- עין: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- חרד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומחנה: NOUN,m,sg,con
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- מצפון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מגבעת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,con
- המורה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בעמק: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Judg.6.27 (verbal): Gideon again 'rose early' (וישכם) to carry out the LORD's command—same verb/action and motif of getting up at dawn to act.
- Judg.7.2-7 (structural): Immediate literary continuation: 7:1 sets the scene (spring/valley) for the divine testing and reduction of Gideon's forces that unfolds in 7:2–7.
- Judg.4.6-14 (thematic): Deborah and Barak muster on the heights (Mount Tabor) while Sisera's army gathers in the plain—parallel hill/valley encampment and leaderly muster before battle.
- 1 Sam.17.20-22 (thematic): David rises early and goes toward the army/camp where the Philistines are arrayed—similar motif of early rising and confronting an opposing encampment.
Alternative generated candidates
- Yerubaal—that is, Gideon—and all the people who were with him rose up and camped by the spring of Harod; and the camp of Midian lay north of them, by the hill of Moreh in the valley.
- Now Jerubbaal, that is, Gideon, and all the people who were with him arose and encamped by the spring of Harod, while the camp of Midian lay north of them, by the hill of Moreh in the valley.
Jud.7.2 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- רב: ADJ,m,sg
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אתך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- מתתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בידם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- פן: CONJ
- יתפאר: VERB,hithp,imprf,3,m,sg
- עלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- ידי: NOUN,f,pl,cons
- הושיעה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,f,sg
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
Parallels
- Judg.7.7 (structural): Immediate continuation: God explains he will deliver Midian by a greatly reduced force (the 300) so Israel cannot claim their own hand saved them.
- 1 Sam.14.6 (thematic): Jonathan’s remark that the LORD can save by many or by few parallels the idea that victory depends on God’s action, not Israel’s numbers.
- Deut.8.17-18 (verbal): Warning not to say ‘my power/the might of my hand has gotten me this wealth’ echoes the concern that Israel might boast that their hand saved them.
- Ps.44.6-8 (thematic): Affirms that deliverance does not come from human might or numbers but from God, resonating with the motive for reducing Gideon’s forces.
- Jer.9.23-24 (thematic): Denounces boasting in human wisdom, might, or riches and redirects boasting to knowledge of God, reflecting the theological aim to prevent Israel’s self-glorification.
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD said to Gideon, "The people who are with you are too many for me to give Midian into their hand, lest Israel boast against me, 'My own hand saved me.'"
- The LORD said to Gideon, "The people with you are many; if I give Midian into their hand, Israel will boast over Me, saying, 'My own hand has saved me.'"
Jud.7.3 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- קרא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נא: PART
- באזני: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,cstr
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- ירא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- וחרד: CONJ+VERB,qal,ptc,ms,sg
- ישב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ויצפר: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,ms
- מהר: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- הגלעד: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וישב: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מן: PREP
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עשרים: NUM,card,pl
- ושנים: CONJ+NUM,m,pl,abs
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
- ועשרת: CONJ+NUM,ten,cons
- אלפים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- נשארו: VERB,nif,perf,3,pl
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 20:8 (verbal): Gives the same military procedure of asking who is fearful and fainthearted and sending them away before battle—language and function parallel Gideon's muster reduction.
- Judges 7:2-8 (structural): Immediate narrative context: God orders the reduction of Gideon's force first by sending home the fearful and then by the water test, culminating in the 300 left to fight Midian.
- Judges 6:34-40 (thematic): Earlier scenes of Gideon's calling and his doubts/tests (including the fleece) echo the themes of fear, testing, and divine selection that underlie the reduction in 7:3.
- Exodus 14:13 (thematic): Moses' exhortation 'Fear not, stand still' contrasts with the fearful who are sent away in Judges 7:3 and highlights the biblical motif of God's deliverance of a diminished, fearful people.
- 1 Samuel 17:45-47 (thematic): David's confidence that the Lord gives victory to the few against the many parallels the theological point of Gideon's pared-down force—divine deliverance through unlikely, small numbers.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now therefore proclaim in the hearing of the people, 'Whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return home.' So twenty-two thousand of the people returned, and ten thousand remained.
- Now therefore proclaim in the hearing of the people, 'Whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return and depart from Mount Gilead.' So twenty-two thousand of the people returned, and ten thousand remained.
Jud.7.4 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- עוד: ADV
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- רב: ADJ,m,sg
- הורד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אותם: PRON,3,m,pl,obj
- אל: NEG
- המים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ואצרפנו: VERB,piel,impf,1,_,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- והיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- ילך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אתך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- ילך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אתך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- לא: PART_NEG
- ילך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עמך: NOUN,m,sg,suff-2m
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- לא: PART_NEG
- ילך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Luke 22:31 (verbal): Jesus warns Peter that Satan has asked to 'sift you as wheat'—uses the same sift/sifting imagery of testing and separating to reveal who remains.
- Zechariah 13:9 (verbal): God speaks of refining and trying a remnant ('I will refine them... I will try them'), echoing the imagery of divine testing and selection present in Gideon's sifting at the water.
- Psalm 66:10 (thematic): 'For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried'—the theme of God testing and proving people parallels the selection of soldiers in Judges 7:4.
- Isaiah 1:25 (thematic): God declares he will 'turn his hand upon you, and purge away your dross'—the motif of purging/refining (separating what remains) parallels the sifting of Gideon's host.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD said to Gideon, "The people are still too many; bring them down to the water, and I will test them for you there. Then it shall be that whoever I say to you, 'This one shall go with you,' he shall go; and whoever I say to you, 'This one shall not go with you,' he shall not go."
- And the LORD said to Gideon, "The people are still too many; bring them down to the water, and I will sift them for you there. It shall be, that whoever I say to you, 'This one shall go with you,' he shall go; and whoever I say to you, 'This one shall not go with you,' he shall not go."
Jud.7.5 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויורד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אל: NEG
- המים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- כל: DET
- אשר: PRON,rel
- ילק: VERB,qal,ipf,3,m,sg
- בלשונו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- מן: PREP
- המים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- כאשר: CONJ
- ילק: VERB,qal,ipf,3,m,sg
- הכלב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- תציג: VERB,hiph,ipf,2,m,pl
- אותו: PRON,3,m,sg,obj
- לבד: PREP
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- יכרע: VERB,qal,ipf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- ברכיו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+sfx3,m
- לשתות: INF,qal
Parallels
- Judges 7:2-4 (structural): Immediate narrative context: God instructs Gideon to reduce the army — verses 2–4 describe sending men home and the method that leads to the water‑test in v.5.
- Judges 6:36-40 (thematic): Another instance of Gideon asking for signs from God to confirm divine selection; both passages concern divine testing and confirmation in choosing Israel's deliverer.
- 1 Chronicles 11:15-19 (cf. 2 Samuel 23:13-17) (thematic): David’s mighty men risked fetching water for him from Bethlehem; like the Gideon episode, this passage uses actions at water to reveal courage, loyalty, and character.
- Exodus 17:1-7 (thematic): A wilderness episode where Israel’s access to water becomes a test of faith and provokes divine instruction/judgment; connects the motif of people, water, and divine testing.
- 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (thematic): Paul’s reflection that God chooses the weak and few to shame the strong resonates with Gideon’s selection of a small, divinely pared‑down force and the surprising means of selection.
Alternative generated candidates
- So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, "Every one who laps with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set apart by himself; likewise every one who kneels down to drink."
- So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, "Separate everyone who laps the water with his tongue, as a dog laps; likewise set apart everyone who kneels to drink."
Jud.7.6 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- מספר: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- המלקקים: PART,qal,part,3,m,pl,def
- בידם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- פיהם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,3,m,pl
- שלש: NUM,card,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- יתר: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כרעו: VERB,qal,perf,3,pl
- על: PREP
- ברכיהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs,prsuf:3,m,pl
- לשתות: INF,qal
- מים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Judg.7.4-5 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same episode: the prior verses prescribe the drinking-test (who licks/cups with hand) that produces the 300-man result; they provide the direct verbal and narrative context for v.6.
- Judg.7.2 (structural): Closely related instruction earlier in the scene to send home the fearful so that the army is reduced — explains the broader process of divine selection that culminates in the 300-men count.
- 1 Samuel 14:6 (thematic): Jonathan’s words ('Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few') echo the theme of God delivering Israel through a small, divinely chosen force rather than by human numbers.
- Romans 9:27-29 (thematic): Paul’s citation of Isaiah about a remnant kept by God parallels the theological idea in Gideon: God preserves and acts through a small remnant rather than the full multitude.
- 1 Kings 19:18 (thematic): Elijah’s prophetic promise that God will leave a faithful remnant (7,000 who did not bow to Baal) echoes the motif of a preserved, faithful minority chosen by God, comparable to Gideon’s 300.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was three hundred men; but all the rest of the people kneeled to drink water.
- The number of those who lapped, choosing them with their hands to their mouths, was three hundred; and all the rest of the people kneeled to drink water.
Jud.7.7 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- בשלש: PREP+NUM,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- המלקקים: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,pl,def
- אושיע: VERB,qal,impf,1,-,sg
- אתכם: PRT+PRON,2,m,pl
- ונתתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בידך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,suff,2,m,sg
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- למקמו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Judges 7:2 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel: God tells Gideon the army is too large and must be reduced—prepares ground for the 300-man selection in v.7.
- 1 Samuel 14:6 (thematic): Jonathan's remark that the LORD can save by many or by few echoes the theme of divine victory despite small numbers.
- 1 Samuel 17:45-47 (thematic): David's confidence that the LORD will deliver Goliath into his hand parallels Gideon's reliance on God to defeat a superior foe.
- 2 Chronicles 14:11-12 (thematic): Asa's prayer for deliverance and the subsequent victory over a larger invading force reflects the motif of God granting triumph to the few.
- Exodus 14:13-14 (thematic): God's command to stand firm because 'the LORD will fight for you' parallels the idea that victory depends on divine intervention rather than numeric strength.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD said to Gideon, "With the three hundred that lapped I will save you, and give Midian into your hand; and let all the other people go, every man to his place."
- And the LORD said to Gideon, "With the three hundred who lapped I will save you, and give Midian into your hand; and let all the others go every man to his place."
Jud.7.8 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויקחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- צדה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בידם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ואת: CONJ
- שופרתיהם: NOUN,m,pl,def,poss:3,m,pl
- ואת: CONJ
- כל: DET
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שלח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאהליו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- ובשלש: CONJ+PREP,NUM,card,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- החזיק: VERB,hiphil,perf,3,m,sg
- ומחנה: NOUN,m,sg,con
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- מתחת: PREP
- בעמק: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Judg.7.2 (structural): Same episode—God instructs Gideon to reduce the number of men, setting up the contrast between large host and the final 300.
- Judg.7.16 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the scene: the 300 take trumpets and jars and execute the surprise tactic against Midian, echoing the items and action in 7:8.
- 1 Sam.14:6-15 (thematic): Jonathan and his companion launch a small-scale surprise attack against a much larger Philistine force; theme of a tiny band achieving victory through daring/faithful initiative.
- 2 Chron.20:21-22 (thematic): Jehoshaphat’s forces stand by while singers/priests lead the way and God causes the enemy to be defeated—another instance of unconventional warfare where reliance on God, not military strength, brings victory.
Alternative generated candidates
- So the people took provisions in their hands and their trumpets, and sent every man to his tent, and retained only the three hundred men; and the camp of Midian lay below them in the valley.
- So the men took the provisions and their trumpets in their hands; every man of Israel returned to his tent, but Gideon and the three hundred who had the trumpets remained. The camp of Midian lay in the valley below them.
Jud.7.9 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- בלילה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ההוא: DEM,ms,sg
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- קום: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- רד: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- במחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- נתתיו: VERB,qal,perf,1,com,sg+3,m,sg(obj)
- בידך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,suff,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Judg.6.14 (structural): Earlier divine commissioning of Gideon—God commands him to go and promises deliverance, forming the immediate narrative and theological context for the night command in 7:9.
- Josh.10.8 (verbal): God tells Joshua not to fear and that He has delivered the enemy into his hand—language and divine assurance ('delivered into your hand') closely parallel the command and promise in Judg 7:9.
- 1 Sam.17:45-47 (thematic): David's confident advance against Goliath in reliance on Yahweh's deliverance—an individual's attack against a stronger foe under divine promise, echoing the theme of victory given by God.
- 2 Chron.20:15 (thematic): The oracle to Jehoshaphat that 'the battle is not yours but God's' and the assurance of deliverance—parallels the motif of divine instruction and guaranteed victory given to a leader before battle.
Alternative generated candidates
- It came about on that night that the LORD said to him, "Arise, go down against the camp, for I have given it into your hand."
- It came about on that night that the LORD said to him, "Arise, go down against the camp, for I have given it into your hand."
Jud.7.10 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ואם: CONJ
- ירא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- לרדת: VERB,qal,inf
- רד: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- ופרה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- נערך: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Judges 7:9 (verbal): Immediate context: the same divine command to 'go down' against the Midianite camp and the instruction to take the servant Purah — shares wording and narrative function.
- Joshua 2:1 (thematic): Sending a small party to reconnoiter the enemy (spies to Jericho) parallels Gideon's going down to view the Midianite camp and gather intelligence.
- 1 Samuel 17:20–23 (thematic): David goes down to the camp to bring provisions and encounters the battle front — similar movement into the enemy area and the setting for a decisive confrontation.
- 1 Samuel 14:13–15 (thematic): Jonathan and his armor‑bearer attack a Philistine outpost by stealth at dawn; like Gideon's night reconnaissance, a small force exploits surprise against a larger encampment.
- 2 Kings 6:15–17 (allusion): Elisha calms his terrified servant who sees surrounding enemy forces by revealing divine protection — parallels the motif of fear before an enemy camp and God's reassurance prior to victory.
Alternative generated candidates
- And if you are afraid to go down, go down yourself, and take your servant Purah with you.
- If you are afraid to go down, go down with your servant Purah to the camp.
Jud.7.11 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ושמעת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- מה: PRON,int
- ידברו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ואחר: CONJ
- תחזקנה: VERB,qal,impf,3,pl
- ידיך: NOUN,f,pl,cs,2ms
- וירדת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- במחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וירד: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- ופרה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נערו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- קצה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- החמשים: NUM,m,pl,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- במחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Judg.7.13-15 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the same episode: the hostile soldier's dream and its interpretation that Gideon overhears, which directly precipitate the panic and rout of the Midianite camp.
- Judg.6.36-40 (thematic): Gideon seeks and receives a sign to confirm divine action; both passages treat signs/omens as confirmations that shape Gideon's response and Israel's subsequent victory.
- Gen.37.5-11 (thematic): Joseph's dreams are told to others and interpreted as revelations about future events; parallels the role of a reported dream and its interpretation in revealing and initiating providential outcomes.
- 1 Sam.14.15-23 (thematic): Description of sudden panic and confusion in an enemy camp leading to Israelite victory; echoes the motif of divine-induced fear in the foe after a sign or supernatural action.
Alternative generated candidates
- Listen to what they say; and afterward your hands shall be strengthened that you may go down against the camp. So he went down with Purah his servant to the outside of the armed men who were in the camp.
- Hear what they say, and afterward your hands will be strengthened to go down into the camp." So he went down with his servant Purah to the edge of the camp.
Jud.7.12 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ומדין: CONJ+NOUN,prop,m,sg
- ועמלק: CONJ+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- קדם: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- נפלים: VERB,qal,ptc,0,m,pl
- בעמק: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כארבה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לרב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולגמליהם: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs,3mp
- אין: PART,neg
- מספר: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- כחול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שעל: REL+PREP
- שפת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- הים: NOUN,m,sg,abs,def
- לרב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 22:17 (verbal): Uses the same stock simile 'as the sand of the seashore' to denote an uncountable multitude—same Hebrew imagery for innumerable numbers.
- Exodus 10:12-15 (thematic): The plague of locusts is depicted as a vast, consuming swarm that covers the land—parallels Judges' comparison of the enemy to locusts in number and devastation.
- Joel 1:4 (thematic): Joel’s layered locust imagery (great locust, young locust, etc.) portrays an overwhelming, consuming swarm—similar metaphor for invading forces 'like locusts'.
- Isaiah 10:22 (verbal): Employs the 'sand of the sea' simile to describe multitudinous people; echoes Judges' language for vast, uncountable host.
Alternative generated candidates
- And behold, Midian, Amalek, and all the sons of the east were lying in the valley like locusts in abundance; and their camels were like the sand on the seashore, without number in multitude.
- Now Midian, Amalek, and all the people of the East lay along in the valley like locusts for multitude; and their camels were without number—too many to be counted—as the sand on the seashore for abundance.
Jud.7.13 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- והנה: ADV
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מספר: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- לרעהו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,poss3ms
- חלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הנה: PART
- חלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חלמתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- והנה: ADV
- צליל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שערים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מתהפך: VERB,hitpael,ptc,3,m,sg
- במחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- עד: PREP
- האהל: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויכהו: CONJ+VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg+PRON,3,m,sg
- ויפל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ויהפכהו: VERB,hiphil,impf,3,m,sg+OBJ:3,m,sg
- למעלה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ונפל: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- האהל: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Judg.7.14 (structural): Immediate literary continuation: the same dreamed image is interpreted by the dreamer as forecasting Gideon’s victory—the dream functions as a sign confirming God’s action.
- Gen.37:5-11 (thematic): Joseph’s dreams use symbolic household imagery (sheaves, stars) that predict the future overthrow/exaltation of people; parallels the motif of a private dream revealing the fate of others and vindicating the dreamer’s role.
- Gen.41:1-36 (thematic): Pharaoh’s dreams and Joseph’s interpretation show the pattern of a dream as divine revelation that is interpreted and leads to decisive action—similar to how the Midianite-camp dream signals God’s forthcoming overthrow.
- Acts 10:9-16 (thematic): Peter’s visionary experience functions as a revelatory sign that reorients understanding and prompts immediate obedience; parallels the use of a visionary sign in Judges 7 to confirm divine intent and produce action.
Alternative generated candidates
- When Gideon had come, behold, a man was telling a dream to his fellow, and he said, 'Behold, I dreamed a dream, and behold, a loaf of barley bread tumbled into the camp of Midian and came to the tent and struck it so that it fell and turned it upside down, and the tent lay flat.'
- And as he came, behold, a man was telling his friend a dream, saying, 'Behold, I dreamed a dream, and there was a cake of barley bread tumbling into the camp of Midian, and it came to the tent and struck it so that it fell and turned it upside down, and the tent lay flat.'
Jud.7.14 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויען: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- רעהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אין: PART,neg
- זאת: DEM,f,sg
- בלתי: NEG
- אם: CONJ
- חרב: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יואש: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בידו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- כל: DET
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 17:47 (thematic): David declares that the victory over the Philistine will be for the LORD, not by human might—parallel theme of a leader’s success attributed to God rather than personal power.
- Joshua 6:2 (verbal): God announces He will give Jericho into Joshua’s hand—language and concept of God ‘giving’ the enemy into the hand of Israel’s commander echo the wording in Judges 7:14.
- Exodus 14:13-14 (thematic): Moses tells Israel to stand firm and see God's salvation, for the LORD will fight for them—similar motif of God effecting deliverance and granting victory over foes.
- Judges 8:28 (structural): Later summary of Gideon’s successful subjugation of Midian—direct continuation and summary of the deliverance that 7:14 already recognizes as God’s act.
- 2 Samuel 22:36-37 (Psalm 18:35-36) (thematic): David praises God who arms him and makes his way perfect, subduing enemies under him—resonates with the idea that success in battle is wrought by God and given into the hand of his servant.
Alternative generated candidates
- And his fellow answered and said, 'This is nothing but the sword of Gideon son of Joash, a man of Israel; God has given Midian and the whole camp into his hand.'
- His fellow answered and said, 'This is nothing else but the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel; God has given Midian and the whole camp into his hand.'
Jud.7.15 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כשמע: CONJ
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- את: PRT,acc
- מספר: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- החלום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- שברו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- וישתחו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- וישב: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- מחנה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- קומו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- כי: CONJ
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בידכם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- מחנה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Judges 7:9-14 (verbal): The dream and its interpretation that Gideon hears are narrated immediately before 7:15; the sign provides the confirmation that prompts his worship and proclamation to the camp.
- Judges 6:22-24 (thematic): Earlier in Gideon's call he recognizes the angel of the LORD and worships, then builds an altar—parallel in theme of worshipful response to a divine revelation and deliverance.
- Joshua 10:8 (verbal): Joshua urges his troops not to fear because the LORD will deliver their enemies into their hand—language and function (encouraging the troops with assurance of divine deliverance) parallel Gideon’s command.
- Exodus 14:31 (thematic): After the LORD’s decisive deliverance at the Red Sea Israel fears the LORD and believes; similarly, Gideon’s announcement follows a confirmed act/sign of divine deliverance leading to communal faith and action.
- 1 Samuel 7:10-12 (thematic): Samuel’s prayer results in a rout of Israel’s enemies and he sets up a memorial (Ebenezer) declaring 'Thus far the LORD has helped us'—parallels the motif of divine deliverance followed by communal acknowledgment and remembrance.
Alternative generated candidates
- When Gideon heard the telling of the dream and its interpretation, he worshiped; and he returned into the camp of Israel and said, 'Arise, for the LORD has given the host of Midian into your hand.'
- When Gideon heard the telling of the dream and its interpretation, he worshiped; then he returned to the camp of Israel and said, "Arise, for the LORD has given the camp of Midian into your hand."
Jud.7.16 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויחץ: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- שלש: NUM,card,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- שלשה: NUM,m
- ראשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שופרות: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ביד: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כלם: PRON,3,m,pl
- וכדים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- רקים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ולפדים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- בתוך: PREP
- הכדים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Judges 7:19-22 (verbal): Immediate narrative continuation: the three companies blow trumpets, break jars, display torches and shout, causing Midianite panic—the same elements and actions described in v.16.
- Joshua 6:4-20 (thematic): Use of trumpet blasts and a communal shout to bring about victory and the collapse of the enemy (the walls of Jericho); parallels the ritual/sonic tactic that precipitates divine deliverance.
- 1 Samuel 14:20-23 (thematic): After Jonathan’s attack the Philistine camp is thrown into panic and confusion, enabling Israelite victory—similar motif of sudden terror in the enemy camp leading to rout.
- 2 Chronicles 20:21-23 (thematic): Jehoshaphat’s army advances after singers; God causes the enemy to turn on one another and be destroyed—another example of non‑conventional tactics accompanied by divine intervention and panic among foes.
Alternative generated candidates
- He divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put trumpets into their hands and empty pitchers, with torches inside the pitchers.
- He divided the three hundred men into three companies, and put trumpets into their hands, with empty pitchers and torches inside the pitchers.
Jud.7.17 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- ממני: PREP,suff,1,m,sg
- תראו: VERB,qal,imperfect,2,m,pl
- וכן: ADV
- תעשו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- והנה: ADV
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בקצה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- והיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- כאשר: CONJ
- אעשה: VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
- כן: ADV
- תעשון: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Judges 7:19-22 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Gideon carries out the plan he instructs here—coming to the edge of the camp and the men doing as he did, resulting in the rout of the Midianites.
- John 13:15 (verbal): Jesus' explicit wording—'I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you'—parallels the instruction to imitate the leader's actions.
- 1 Corinthians 11:1 (verbal): Paul's injunction 'Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ' echoes the 'follow me / do as I do' dynamic of leadership and imitation.
- Matthew 4:19 (thematic): Jesus' call 'Follow me' uses the same summons to come after a leader and adopt his way of acting—a thematic parallel to Gideon's command.
- 1 Samuel 14:6-7 (thematic): Jonathan takes the initiative in battle and his attendant follows his lead ('do whatsoever seemeth good to thee'), reflecting the motif of a leader acting first and others executing the plan.
Alternative generated candidates
- He said to them, 'Look at me and do likewise: behold, I will come to the outside of the camp, and as I do, you shall do.'
- And he said to them, "Look at me and do likewise. When I come to the outskirts of the camp, do as I do."
Jud.7.18 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותקעתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,?,sg
- בשופר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- ותקעתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- בשופרות: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- גם: ADV
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- סביבות: ADV
- כל: DET
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואמרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- ולגדעון: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Joshua 6:5 (thematic): Use of a trumpet and prescribed ritual movements around an enemy stronghold as part of divine warfare—both passages instruct surrounding the enemy and employ trumpets as a means to secure victory through God's act.
- Joshua 6:20 (thematic): Trumpet blasts together with a loud shout produce miraculous deliverance (the fall of Jericho's walls); parallels Gideon's use of trumpets and a shout to create panic in the enemy camp.
- Numbers 10:9 (verbal): Explicit instruction to blow the trumpet as an alarm in the time of war—provides the broader cultic/functional background for Gideon's command to sound trumpets at battle.
- 2 Chronicles 20:22-23 (thematic): Jehoshaphat appoints singers and musicians before battle; as they praise, the Lord causes the enemy to turn on themselves—similar tactic of liturgical/aural action (sound, praise, trumpet) producing divine rout.
Alternative generated candidates
- When I blow with the trumpet—me and all who are with me—then you blow the trumpets also on every side of the camp and shout, "For the LORD and for Gideon!"
- He said, "When I blow with the trumpet, I and all who are with me will blow also; and you shall blow the trumpets all around the camp, and say, 'The sword of the LORD and of Gideon.'"
Jud.7.19 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- ומאה: CONJ+NUM,f,sg,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- בקצה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האשמרת: NOUN,f,sg,def
- התיכונה: ADJ,f,sg,def
- אך: PART
- הקם: VERB,hiph,impv,2,m,sg
- הקימו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- השמרים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ויתקעו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- בשופרות: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ונפוץ: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- הכדים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בידם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Joshua 6:20 (verbal): Both accounts feature the sounding of trumpets and a loud shout as a ritualized act that precipitates a decisive victory—Joshua at Jericho and Gideon’s men breaking jars and blowing trumpets to create confusion.
- 2 Kings 7:6–7 (thematic): God causes a sudden panic in an enemy camp by producing confusing sounds so the foe flees and is routed—parallel theme of divine-induced terror and rout in an enemy encampment.
- 1 Samuel 14:20–23 (thematic): Jonathan’s surprise attack leads to panic and slaughter within the Philistine camp; like Gideon’s tactic, a small force triggers disorder and rout among the enemy.
- 2 Chronicles 20:22–24 (structural): Jehoshaphat’s forces begin to praise (with music/voices) and the Lord sets an ambush, causing the enemies to destroy one another—structurally similar: victory achieved by God through surprise/panic rather than conventional pitched battle.
Alternative generated candidates
- Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the edge of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch; they blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands.
- Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the beginning of the middle watch of the camp. They blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands.
Jud.7.20 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתקעו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- הראשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- בשופרות: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וישברו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- הכדים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ויחזיקו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ביד: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- שמאולם: NOUN,f,pl,poss3,pl
- בלפדים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וביד: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ימינם: NOUN,f,sg,poss3,pl
- השופרות: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לתקוע: VERB,qal,infinitive
- ויקראו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- חרב: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- ולגדעון: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Joshua 6:20 (verbal): Trumpets are blown and the people shout; the shout accompanies a divine victory and the fall of the enemy’s defense — closely parallels Gideon’s trumpet-blast and communal cry for the LORD.
- Numbers 10:5-9 (structural): Prescribes use of trumpets to summon the community and to signal in war; provides cultic/functional background for Gideon’s tactical use of trumpets in battle.
- 2 Chronicles 20:22-24 (thematic): The leaders send forth praise/chanting and the LORD sets ambushes so the enemy is defeated; parallels the idea that a collective shout/praise functions as the catalyst for divine deliverance.
- 1 Samuel 14:15-20 (thematic): A surprise attack at night produces panic and rout among the enemy forces; similar to Gideon’s night/tactical action using sudden trumpet blasts and shouting to induce confusion.
- Judges 6:34 (structural): God’s Spirit comes upon Gideon and his band, equipping them for the forthcoming action; provides immediate theological context for the victory enacted by the trumpet-blast and cry in 7:20.
Alternative generated candidates
- The three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers; they held in their left hands the torches and in their right hands the trumpets to blow, and they cried, "A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!"
- Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers; they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing, and cried, "The sword of the LORD and of Gideon!"
Jud.7.21 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעמדו: CONJ+VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תחתיו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- סביב: ADV
- למחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וירץ: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- כל: DET
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויריעו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- וינוסו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Joshua 6:20 (verbal): Both scenes feature trumpets and a great shout that precipitate the enemy's defeat—Joshua: the people shouted and the wall fell; Gideon: trumpets/shouts cause the camp to rout.
- 2 Chronicles 20:22 (thematic): Jehoshaphat's forces stood by praising while the Lord set ambushes against their enemies, causing the foe to destroy itself and flee—parallel motif of worship/organized action leading to sudden rout.
- 1 Samuel 14:15-20 (thematic): A sudden panic and trembling in the enemy's camp at night leads to confusion and flight (Jonathan's strike), echoing Gideon's surprise attack and the resulting rout.
- Judges 4:15 (thematic): Within Judges another account of Israel's foes being routed and fleeing (Sisera's flight)—echoes the pattern of divine-assisted victory and enemy collapse in flight.
Alternative generated candidates
- Each stood in his place around the camp; and all the army ran; and they cried and fled.
- Every man stood in his place all around the camp; and the whole army ran and cried out and fled.
Jud.7.22 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתקעו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- שלש: NUM,card,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- השופרות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- וישם: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- חרב: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ברעהו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- ובכל: CONJ+PREP
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וינס: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עד: PREP
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השטה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- צררתה: NOUN,f,sg,poss3,f
- עד: PREP
- שפת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- אבל: CONJ
- מחולה: NOUN,prop,sg
- על: PREP
- טבת: ADJ,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Joshua 6:20 (verbal): Trumpet-blast and shout lead to divine victory — the sounding of horns/shout as the means by which the LORD effects the enemy's defeat (Jericho parallel).
- 2 Chronicles 20:22-23 (thematic): Jehoshaphat's army sings and the LORD sets ambushes so that the enemy destroys itself — God causes confusion/infighting among foes leading to their defeat.
- 2 Kings 7:6-7 (thematic): The LORD creates panic in the Syrian camp so they flee, abandoning their tents and provisions — similar divine-induced panic and rout of an enemy host.
- Psalm 18:40 (thematic): God makes the enemies turn their backs and flee — a theological motif of Yahweh causing foes to rout and be scattered.
- Judges 6:34-35 (structural): Earlier in the Gideon cycle the Spirit/clothing and trumpet-call gather/enable Gideon’s band — closely connected structural elements leading into the decisive action in 7:22.
Alternative generated candidates
- Three hundred trumpets were blown, and the LORD set every man's sword against his fellow and against the whole army; and the host fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel-meholah by Tabbath.
- When the three hundred trumpets were blown, the LORD set every man's sword against his fellow throughout the whole camp. The camp fled, and the pursuit reached as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel-meholah by Tabbath.
Jud.7.23 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויצעק: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מנפתלי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,prop
- ומן: CONJ+PREP
- אשר: PRON,rel
- ומן: CONJ+PREP
- כל: DET
- מנשה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וירדפו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- אחרי: PREP
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Judges 7:22 (structural): Immediate context of the same episode: describes the panic God caused among the Midianites that enabled Israel to attack — explains why Israel (including Naphtali, Asher, Manasseh) could pursue.
- Judges 7:24–25 (thematic): Continues the narrative of Israelite pursuit after Gideon's victory: Ephraim is summoned, takes positions at the Jordan and seizes Midianite leaders — another instance of tribal action in the aftermath of the rout.
- Judges 5:14–18 (thematic): The Song of Deborah lists Naphtali and Asher among the tribes that came to battle — parallels the tribal participation motif (Naphtali, Asher, Manasseh) in the deliverance tradition.
- 1 Samuel 17:52–53 (thematic): After David's defeat of Goliath the men of Israel and Judah pursued the Philistines and plundered them — a parallel motif of Israel pursuing a routed enemy after a divinely‑assisted victory.
- Exodus 17:13 (thematic): After Moses’ raised hands and the victory at Rephidim, Joshua pursued and defeated Amalek — another example of Israelite pursuit of a defeated foe under a leader following divine aid.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then the men of Israel were called out from Naphtali and from Asher and from all Manasseh; and they pursued Midian.
- Then the men of Israel cried out from Naphtali and from Asher and from all Manasseh, and they pursued Midian.
Jud.7.24 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ומלאכים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- שלח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הר: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- אפרים: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- רדו: VERB,qal,imperative,2,m,pl
- לקראת: PREP
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולכדו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- המים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- עד: PREP
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ברה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- הירדן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויצעק: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כל: DET
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אפרים: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וילכדו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- המים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- עד: PREP
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ברה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- הירדן: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Judges 7:23 (verbal): Same episode: the text immediately before 7:24 reports Gideon sending messengers throughout the hill country of Ephraim to pursue Midian and seize the waters to the Jordan (near-verbatim action and words).
- Judges 7:22 (structural): Describes the divine rout and pursuit of the Midianites that makes the Ephraim summons necessary—connects causally and narratively with 7:24.
- Judges 8:4-8 (thematic): Narrates the aftermath when Gideon and his men return from the pursuit, meet the Ephraimites, and deal with the political tensions over the campaign and the spoils—a direct continuation and consequence of the call in 7:24.
- Judges 4:6-10 (thematic): Deborah’s summons of Barak and the northern tribes (Zebulun and Naphtali) to battle against Sisera parallels the broader judge-era pattern of leaders calling neighboring hill-country tribes to join in fighting a common enemy.
Alternative generated candidates
- Gideon sent messengers throughout all the hill country of Ephraim, saying, "Come down against the camp, and take the waters by Jordan toward Beth-barah." So all the men of Ephraim were summoned, and they took the waters as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan.
- Gideon sent messengers through all the hill country of Ephraim, saying, "Come down against the Midianites and seize the waters as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan." So all the men of Ephraim were summoned and they seized the waters as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan.
Jud.7.25 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וילכדו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- שני: NUM,m,pl,construct
- שרי: NOUN,m,pl,cs
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- ערב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- זאב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויהרגו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- עורב: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בצור: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עורב: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- זאב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הרגו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ביקב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- זאב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וירדפו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- מדין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ערב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וזאב: CONJ+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הביאו: VERB,hiphil,imperat,2,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- גדעון: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- מעבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לירדן: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Judg.7.24 (structural): Immediate context in the same scene: describes the pursuit of the fleeing Midianites and the capture/killing of their leaders, completing the narrative arc that 7:25 summarizes.
- Judg.8.11 (quotation): A near-duplicate recounting of the same event later in the book: names Oreb and Zeeb, the places of their deaths (Rock of Oreb, Winepress of Zeeb), and bringing their heads to Gideon.
- Judg.8:18-21 (thematic): Continues the aftermath of Gideon’s victory—captures of Midianite leaders (Zebah and Zalmunna), pursuit and execution of enemy princes—echoing the theme of pursuing and delivering enemy leaders into Israel’s hands.
- 1 Sam.17:54 (thematic): David bringing Goliath’s head to a city as a trophy parallels the motif of presenting enemy heads as proof of victory and deliverance (similar to bringing Oreb and Zeeb’s heads to Gideon).
Alternative generated candidates
- They captured two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; they killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb and Zeeb at the winepress of Zeeb. They pursued the Midianites and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon beyond the Jordan.
- They captured the two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb, and killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb and Zeeb at the winepress of Zeeb. They pursued the Midianites, and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon across the Jordan.
Jerubbaal—that is, Gideon—and all the people who were with him rose early and camped beside the spring of Harod; and the camp of Midian lay in the valley to their north, by the hill of Moreh. And the LORD said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for me to give Midian into their hand; lest Israel boast against me, ‘My own hand has saved me.’” Now therefore proclaim in the hearing of the people, ‘Whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return and depart early from Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand of the people returned, and ten thousand remained. And the LORD said to Gideon, “The people are yet too many; bring them down to the water, and I will test them for you there. And it shall be, that of whom I say to you, ‘Let him go with you,’ he shall go with you; and of whom I say to you, ‘Let him not go with you,’ he shall not go.” So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, “Every one who laps the water with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set apart by himself; likewise every one who kneels down to drink.” And the number of those who lapped, putting their hands to their mouths, was three hundred men; all the rest of the people knelt down to drink. And the LORD said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men who lapped I will save you, and give Midian into your hand; and let all the rest of the people go, each to his place.” So the people took provisions and their trumpets in their hands; and every man of Israel returned to his tent. But the three hundred held on, and the camp of Midian lay in the valley below them. Now it came to pass the same night that the LORD said to him, “Rise up; go down to the camp, for I have given it into your hand.”
If you are afraid to go down, go down with your servant Purah to the camp. And he went down with his servant Purah to the outpost of the camp at the edge of the ranks; and they heard a man telling a dream to his fellow. Then he came near to listen. And Midian, Amalek, and all the people of the east were lying along the valley like locusts for multitude; and their camels were without number, as the sand that is by the sea in abundance.
Behold, a man came running and told a man of his dream, saying, ‘I dreamed a dream: behold, a barley loaf tumbled into the camp of Midian, and came to the tent and struck it so that it fell, and turned it upside down, so that the tent lay flat.’” And his fellow answered and said, ‘This is nothing else but the sword of Gideon son of Joash, a man of Israel; God has given Midian and all the host into his hand.’”
When Gideon heard the telling of the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down in worship and returned to the camp of Israel, and said, “Arise, for the LORD has delivered the camp of Midian into your hand.”
He divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put trumpets into their hands, and empty jars, and within the jars torches. And he said to them, “Look at me, and do likewise. Behold, I will come to the outer edge of the camp; do as I do.” And when I blow the trumpet, I and all who are with me will blow on every side of the camp; and you shall blow the trumpets also on every side of the whole camp, and say, ‘For the LORD and for Gideon!’” So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outermost of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, when they had just posted the watch. And they blew the trumpets and broke the jars that were in their hands.
Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the jars, and held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands to blow; and they cried, “A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!”
Every man stood in his place all around the camp, and the whole host ran and cried out and fled.
When the three hundred trumpets were blown, the LORD set every man’s sword against his fellow and against all the host. And the army fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, even to the border of Abel-meholah by Tabbath. And the men of Israel were summoned from Naphtali, from Asher, and from all the land of Manasseh; and they pursued Midian. And Gideon sent messengers throughout the hill-country of Ephraim, saying, “Come down against the Midianites, and seize the waters as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan.” So all the men of Ephraim were called out, and they seized the waters as far as Beth-barah and the Jordan.
They captured two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb, and they slew Oreb at the rock of Oreb and Zeeb they slew at the winepress of Zeeb; and they pursued Midian, and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon beyond the Jordan.