Old Testament
Judges 8:30
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Gideon fathered 70 sons, because he had many wives.
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And Gideon had threescore and ten sons of his body begotten: for he had many wives.
What Judges 8:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 8:30, we learn that Gideon, a significant figure in Israel's history, had a large family with 70 sons. This was due to him having many wives, which was not uncommon in that cultural context. The number of sons indicates his wealth and status, as having many children was often seen as a blessing. However, this also raises questions about the implications of polygamy and the challenges it can bring to family dynamics. Gideon's many sons would later play a role in the political and social landscape of Israel, particularly in the conflicts that arose after his death. This verse highlights both the blessings and potential complications of such a family structure, as well as the importance of legacy and leadership in the community.
How to apply Judges 8:30 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of family and the responsibilities that come with it. While having a large family can be a blessing, it also requires careful management and attention. We should strive to nurture our relationships and ensure that we are leading our families with wisdom and love, regardless of their size.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Gideon's story: Forty Years of Rest (Judges 8:28–35)
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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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Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 8:30 mean?
Judges 8:30 indicates that Gideon had 70 sons because he had many wives. This reflects the cultural practice of polygamy in that time, highlighting Gideon's wealth and status.
What is the significance of Gideon's 70 sons in Judges 8:30?
The 70 sons of Gideon symbolize his prosperity and the blessings of a large family in ancient Israel. However, they also foreshadow future conflicts and challenges in leadership after Gideon's death.
What does the term 'many wives' imply in Judges 8:30?
The phrase 'many wives' in Judges 8:30 illustrates the common practice of polygamy in ancient cultures, which was often associated with wealth and social standing.
How does Judges 8:30 relate to family dynamics?
Judges 8:30 raises questions about family dynamics, as having many sons from multiple wives can lead to complex relationships and potential conflicts within the family.
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