Old Testament
Judges 8:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He turned to his oldest son Jether and said, "Get up and kill them!" But the boy didn't draw his sword — he was too afraid, because he was still young.
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And he said unto Jether his firstborn, Up, and slay them. But the youth drew not his sword: for he feared, because he was yet a youth.
What Judges 8:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Gideon, a leader of Israel, commands his oldest son Jether to kill two captured Midianite kings. However, Jether hesitates and does not draw his sword because he is afraid and still young. This moment highlights the tension between duty and fear, especially for someone inexperienced. Gideon's request reflects the harsh realities of war and the expectations placed on young people in critical situations. Jether's fear is understandable; he is not yet ready to face the gravity of taking a life. This scene illustrates the challenges of leadership and the weight of decisions that can fall on the next generation. It also serves as a reminder that courage can be difficult to muster, especially when faced with violence and moral dilemmas. Gideon's expectation of his son shows the pressure that can come from parental figures, and it raises questions about the readiness of youth to take on adult responsibilities.
How to apply Judges 8:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the fears and limitations of youth. It reminds us that not everyone is ready to face difficult challenges, and that it's important to support and guide young people rather than push them into situations they are not prepared for. Understanding and patience are key.
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 8:20
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Key themes
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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 8:20 mean?
Judges 8:20 describes Gideon commanding his son Jether to kill two Midianite kings. Jether hesitates due to fear and his young age, highlighting the struggle between duty and fear in critical situations.
What is the significance of Jether's fear in Judges 8:20?
Jether's fear illustrates the challenges young people face when confronted with serious responsibilities. It emphasizes that not everyone is ready to handle life-and-death situations, regardless of expectations.
What themes are present in Judges 8:20?
Judges 8:20 touches on themes of leadership, courage, youth, fear, parental expectations, and moral dilemmas, showcasing the complexities of making difficult decisions.
What does Gideon's command reveal about leadership in Judges 8:20?
Gideon's command to Jether reveals the pressures leaders can place on the younger generation, expecting them to act decisively even when they may not be ready.
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