Old Testament
Judges 8:5
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He said to the people of Succoth, "Please give my men some bread. They're worn out, and I'm still pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian."
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And he said unto the men of Succoth, Give, I pray you, loaves of bread unto the people that follow me; for they be faint, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.
What Judges 8:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Gideon is speaking to the people of Succoth, asking for food for his weary men who are pursuing the Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. Gideon and his troops are in a critical moment of their mission, and he recognizes that his men need sustenance to continue their pursuit. This request highlights the importance of support and cooperation in times of struggle. Gideon’s plea reflects the urgency of their situation, as they are not just fighting a battle but are also in need of basic provisions to sustain their strength. The people of Succoth's response to Gideon’s request will reveal their loyalty and commitment to the cause against the Midianites. This moment emphasizes the need for community support in achieving common goals, especially in challenging times.
How to apply Judges 8:5 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of supporting those who are in leadership roles and facing challenges. Just as Gideon sought help for his men, we should be willing to assist others in their times of need, fostering a spirit of cooperation and encouragement in our communities.
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 8:5
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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 8:5 mean?
Judges 8:5 shows Gideon asking the people of Succoth for food for his exhausted men who are pursuing the Midianite kings. This highlights the need for support and cooperation during difficult times.
What is the significance of Gideon's request in Judges 8:5?
Gideon's request for bread emphasizes the importance of community support in achieving goals, especially in challenging situations. It reflects the urgency of their mission and the necessity of sustenance for his weary troops.
What does Gideon ask for in Judges 8:5?
In Judges 8:5, Gideon asks the men of Succoth for loaves of bread for his followers, who are faint from their pursuit of the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna.
How does Judges 8:5 relate to community support?
Judges 8:5 highlights the importance of community support by showing Gideon's reliance on the people of Succoth for food, which is essential for his men to continue their mission against the Midianites.
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