Gideon
Gideon was an Israelite judge, military leader, and prophet in the Hebrew Bible, whose story is told in Judges 6–8.
Gideon was an Israelite judge, military leader, and prophet in the Hebrew Bible. His story is told in Judges 6–8, where he leads Israel to victory over the Midianites with a force of 300 men. He is also known as Jerubbaal and Jerubbesheth.
Biblical narrative
Gideon’s story begins with his call to lead Israel against the Midianites. The account emphasizes his initial reluctance and the signs he receives before accepting the role.
Military leadership
The biblical text describes Gideon as leading Israel to a decisive victory despite being heavily outnumbered. His force is reduced to 300 men before the battle, highlighting divine support in the narrative.
Names and identity
Gideon is also called Jerubbaal and Jerubbesheth in biblical tradition. These alternate names appear in different textual contexts and are part of his biblical identity.
Religious significance
In Jewish and Christian traditions, Gideon is remembered as a judge chosen to rescue Israel in a time of crisis. His story is often read as an account of faith, obedience, and deliverance.
Key facts
- Gideon is presented in the Hebrew Bible as one of the judges of Israel.
- His story appears in Judges 6–8, where he is called to deliver Israel from Midianite oppression.
- He is associated with the tribe of Manasseh and the town of Ophrah.
- The biblical account says he led a reduced force of 300 men to victory.
- He is also identified by the names Jerubbaal and Jerubbesheth.
Gideon is widely known in Canadian Christian education, church teaching, and Bible study contexts, where his story is used as a reference point for leadership, faith, and deliverance.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Gideon in the Bible?
What tribe was Gideon from?
What is Gideon known for?
Where did Gideon live?
What other names is Gideon called by?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GideonSupports: Identifies Gideon as an Israelite judge, military leader, and prophet; gives alternate names, tribe, family, residence, and Judges 6–8 as the source.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Gideon-biblical-figureSupports: Describes Gideon as a judge and hero-liberator of Israel in the Book of Judges.
- Bible Gateway — https://biblegateway.com/resources/encyclopedia-of-the-bible/GideonSupports: States that Gideon was the son of Joash, from the tribe of Manasseh, and the fifth recorded judge of Israel.
- World History Encyclopedia — https://www.worldhistory.org/Gideon/Supports: Summarizes Gideon as a judge and military leader and notes his alternate names.