Old Testament
Judges 6:32
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From that day on, Gideon was called Jerubbaal, meaning "Let Baal contend against him," because he had torn down Baal's altar.
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Therefore on that day he called him Jerubbaal, saying, Let Baal plead against him, because he hath thrown down his altar.
What Judges 6:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 6:32, Gideon is given the name Jerubbaal, which means 'Let Baal contend against him.' This name signifies Gideon's bold act of tearing down the altar of Baal, a false god worshipped by the Israelites. By destroying the altar, Gideon challenged the power of Baal and demonstrated his commitment to the true God of Israel. The name Jerubbaal serves as a reminder of Gideon's faith and courage in standing against idolatry. It also highlights the conflict between the worship of Yahweh and the pagan practices prevalent among the Israelites at that time. Gideon's actions were not just personal; they were a call to the people to return to true worship and reject the false gods that had led them astray. This moment marks a pivotal point in Gideon's journey as a leader and judge, setting the stage for his future battles against the Midianites and his role in delivering Israel from oppression.
How to apply Judges 6:32 to your life
Gideon's story encourages us to confront the idols in our lives, whether they are material possessions, relationships, or beliefs that distract us from God. We can take a stand for our faith, trusting that God will empower us to overcome challenges and lead others back to Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: Gideon Tears Down the Altar of Baal (Judges 6:25–32)
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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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Related Bible verses
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 6:32 mean?
Judges 6:32 explains that Gideon was named Jerubbaal after he destroyed Baal's altar. This name means 'Let Baal contend against him,' symbolizing Gideon's challenge to the false god Baal and his commitment to worshiping the true God.
What is the significance of the name Jerubbaal in Judges 6:32?
The name Jerubbaal signifies Gideon's bold act of tearing down Baal's altar, representing his defiance against idolatry and his faith in God. It serves as a reminder of the conflict between worshiping Yahweh and the pagan practices of the Israelites.
What does tearing down Baal's altar represent in Judges 6:32?
Tearing down Baal's altar represents Gideon's rejection of idolatry and his call for the Israelites to return to true worship of God. It marks a pivotal moment in his leadership and sets the stage for his future battles.
How does Judges 6:32 relate to the theme of faith?
Judges 6:32 illustrates the theme of faith through Gideon's courageous act of destroying Baal's altar, demonstrating his trust in God. This act of faith challenges the prevailing idolatry among the Israelites and emphasizes the importance of loyalty to God.
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