Old Testament
Judges 8:10
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Zebah and Zalmunna were camped at Karkor with about 15,000 soldiers — all that remained of the eastern armies. 120,000 fighting men had already fallen in battle.
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Now Zebah and Zalmunna were in Karkor, and their hosts with them, about fifteen thousand men, all that were left of all the hosts of the children of the east: for there fell an hundred and twenty thousand men that drew sword.
What Judges 8:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 8:10, we learn that Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian, were hiding in Karkor with their remaining troops, numbering about 15,000. This was a significant reduction from the 120,000 soldiers they had initially, who had been defeated by Gideon and his men. The verse highlights the aftermath of a fierce battle where the Israelites, led by Gideon, successfully diminished the enemy's forces. The mention of the large number of fallen soldiers emphasizes the scale of the conflict and the victory achieved by Gideon. It also sets the stage for the pursuit of the remaining enemy leaders, showcasing the determination of the Israelites to eliminate the threat posed by Midian. This moment reflects the themes of divine assistance in battle and the importance of leadership in overcoming overwhelming odds.
How to apply Judges 8:10 to your life
This verse reminds us that even when we face overwhelming challenges, perseverance and faith can lead to victory. Just as Gideon and his men relied on God's guidance, we too can seek divine help in our struggles, trusting that we can overcome obstacles with faith and determination.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: Faint, Yet Pursuing (Judges 8:4–21)
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Gideon
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Judges 8:10
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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 8:10 mean?
Judges 8:10 describes the situation where Zebah and Zalmunna, the Midianite kings, are hiding in Karkor with about 15,000 soldiers left after suffering heavy losses in battle against Gideon and the Israelites.
What is the significance of 120,000 soldiers in Judges 8:10?
The mention of 120,000 fallen soldiers in Judges 8:10 highlights the scale of the conflict and the significant victory achieved by Gideon and his men over the Midianite forces.
Who are Zebah and Zalmunna in Judges 8:10?
Zebah and Zalmunna are the kings of Midian mentioned in Judges 8:10, who are trying to regroup with their remaining forces after suffering a major defeat at the hands of Gideon.
What themes are present in Judges 8:10?
Judges 8:10 presents themes of victory in battle, divine assistance, leadership, and the importance of perseverance in overcoming overwhelming odds.
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