Old Testament
Judges 6:21
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Then the angel of the LORD touched the meat and bread with the tip of the staff in his hand. Fire blazed up from the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened bread completely. Then the angel of the LORD vanished from his sight.
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Then the angel of the LORD put forth the end of the staff that was in his hand, and touched the flesh and the unleavened cakes; and there rose up fire out of the rock, and consumed the flesh and the unleavened cakes. Then the angel of the LORD departed out of his sight.
What Judges 6:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 6:21, the angel of the LORD performs a miraculous act by touching the meat and unleavened bread with his staff. This action causes fire to erupt from a rock, consuming the offerings completely. This event signifies divine acceptance and presence, demonstrating God's power and the seriousness of Gideon's calling. The sudden disappearance of the angel after this act emphasizes the supernatural nature of the encounter. Gideon realizes he has been in the presence of God, which fills him with fear, as seeing God is often associated with death in biblical accounts. This moment marks a pivotal point in Gideon's journey, confirming his role as a leader chosen by God to deliver Israel from oppression. It illustrates the theme of divine intervention and the importance of faith in responding to God's call.
How to apply Judges 6:21 to your life
This passage encourages us to recognize and respond to God's call in our lives. Just as Gideon received confirmation through a miraculous sign, we can seek God's guidance and be open to His leading, trusting that He equips us for our purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: The Angel at the Winepress (Judges 6:1–24)
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Gideon
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Judges 6:21
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At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 6:21 mean?
Judges 6:21 describes a moment when the angel of the LORD consumes Gideon's offerings with fire, signifying divine acceptance and God's presence. This act confirms Gideon's calling as a leader for Israel, illustrating the seriousness of his mission.
What is the significance of the fire in Judges 6:21?
The fire that consumes the meat and unleavened bread in Judges 6:21 symbolizes God's approval and power. It demonstrates that God is actively involved in Gideon's life and mission, marking a pivotal moment in his journey.
What does the angel's disappearance in Judges 6:21 indicate?
The sudden disappearance of the angel of the LORD in Judges 6:21 highlights the supernatural nature of the encounter. It signifies that Gideo has experienced a divine moment, which fills him with fear, as encountering God is often seen as a serious event.
What does the term 'unleavened bread' mean in Judges 6:21?
In Judges 6:21, 'unleavened bread' refers to bread made without yeast, symbolizing purity and a lack of corruption. It is often associated with offerings to God, representing sincerity and devotion.
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