Old Testament
Judges 8:35
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Judges 8:35, the verse highlights the lack of gratitude and loyalty from the people of Israel towards Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
They also showed no loyalty to the family of Jerubbaal — that is, Gideon — despite all the good he had done for Israel.
Neither shewed they kindness to the house of Jerubbaal, namely, Gideon, according to all the goodness which he had shewed unto Israel.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 8:35, the verse highlights the lack of gratitude and loyalty from the people of Israel towards Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal. Despite Gideon's significant contributions and victories that brought peace and security to Israel, the people failed to show him kindness or support. This reflects a common human tendency to forget the good deeds of others, especially when circumstances change. Gideon's leadership and sacrifices for the nation were met with ingratitude, illustrating how quickly people can turn away from those who have helped them. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of those who serve and lead us, as well as the need for loyalty and gratitude in our relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 8:35 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own relationships and consider whether we are showing appreciation to those who have helped us. It reminds us to express gratitude and support to leaders and friends who have made sacrifices for our well-being, fostering a culture of kindness and loyalty in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 8:35 teach about ingratitude?
Judges 8:35 illustrates the tendency of people to forget the good deeds of others, particularly when circumstances change. Despite Gideon's significant contributions to Israel, the people showed no loyalty or gratitude towards him. This serves as a reminder of how quickly we can overlook the sacrifices made by leaders and friends, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating their efforts.
How can we apply the message of Judges 8:35 in our lives?
The message of Judges 8:35 encourages us to actively express gratitude to those who have supported us. It prompts us to reflect on our relationships and ensure we acknowledge the contributions of leaders, friends, and family. By fostering a culture of kindness and loyalty, we can strengthen our communities and create an environment where appreciation is regularly shown.
What does the name Jerubbaal mean in Judges 8:35?
Jerubbaal is another name for Gideon, which means 'let Baal contend' or 'he who contends with Baal.' This name reflects Gideon's role in leading Israel against the worship of Baal and his efforts to restore faith in God. The verse highlights the ingratitude of the people towards a leader who fought for their spiritual and physical well-being.
Why is loyalty important in leadership, as shown in Judges 8:35?
Judges 8:35 highlights the importance of loyalty in leadership by showing the consequences of ingratitude. Leaders like Gideon make sacrifices for the greater good, and when their contributions are overlooked, it can lead to disillusionment and a breakdown in community trust. Loyalty fosters a supportive environment where leaders feel valued and motivated to continue their work.
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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