Gideon
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Gideon in the Bible?
Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, was a judge of Israel who led the Israelite forces against the Midianites and dismantled the altars of Baal dedicated by his father's household.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Gideon's narrative provides insight into the political and religious tensions of the Judges period, illustrating how leadership was often contingent upon perceived divine favor and how local cultic practices were challenged by emerging Yahwistic reforms.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Gideon reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Gideon in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Gideon clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Gideon." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/gideon/