Old Testament
Judges 8:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
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.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
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.
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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