Old Testament
Judges 9:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This happened so that the violent murder of Jerubbaal's 70 sons would be avenged — their blood falling on Abimelech, who killed them, and on the men of Shechem, who helped him do it.
Compare translations
That the cruelty done to the threescore and ten sons of Jerubbaal might come, and their blood be laid upon Abimelech their brother, which slew them; and upon the men of Shechem, which aided him in the killing of his brethren.
What Judges 9:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Judges 9:24 highlights the consequences of Abimelech's brutal actions against his own brothers, the sons of Jerubbaal (Gideon). This verse indicates that the violent murder of these 70 sons was not just a personal crime but had broader implications. It emphasizes that justice would be served, and the blood of the slain would be avenged. Abimelech, who committed the act, and the men of Shechem, who supported him, would bear the guilt for this atrocity. The verse serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, especially when they involve betrayal and violence within a family. It underscores the theme of divine justice, where God ensures that wrongdoing does not go unpunished, and the innocent victims will ultimately see justice for their suffering. This narrative sets the stage for the unfolding events in the chapter, where the repercussions of Abimelech's actions will lead to further conflict and divine retribution.
How to apply Judges 9:24 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of accountability for our actions. It reminds us that betrayal, especially within families, can lead to severe consequences. We should strive for honesty and integrity in our relationships, understanding that our choices impact others and that justice will ultimately prevail.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Judges 9:24
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Judges 9:24
Related Bible verses
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 9:24 mean?
Judges 9:24 explains that the violent murder of Jerubbaal's 70 sons would be avenged, placing guilt on Abimelech, who killed them, and on the men of Shechem, who assisted him. It highlights the theme of divine justice and the consequences of betrayal within a family.
What is the significance of Abimelech in Judges 9:24?
Abimelech is significant in Judges 9:24 as he is the one who committed the atrocity of killing his own brothers. The verse emphasizes that his actions, along with the support of the men of Shechem, would not go unpunished, illustrating the serious consequences of betrayal.
What does the phrase 'their blood be laid upon Abimelech' mean?
The phrase 'their blood be laid upon Abimelech' means that Abimelech is held responsible for the murder of his brothers. It signifies that he will bear the guilt and consequences of his violent actions against them.
What themes are present in Judges 9:24?
Judges 9:24 presents themes of justice, betrayal, divine retribution, and family conflict. It underscores the idea that wrongful actions, especially within families, lead to severe consequences and that justice will ultimately be served.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.