“Please speak in the ears of all the men of Shechem, ‘Is it better for you that all the sons of Jerubbaal, who are seventy persons, rule over you, or that one rule over you?’ Remember also that I am your bone and your flesh.”
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 2. Men, particularly to those who have the greatest influence. Hebrew Bahalim. Menochius.—The argumentation of Abimelech tended to prove that monarchy was the most perfect and eligible form of government, and that it would be hard upon the people, and greatly weaken the state, if seventy princes were to be supported in al the dignity of kings. But it was easy to discern the fallacy of his reasons. The dignity of judge was not hereditary, and it does not appear that the sons of Gedeon claimed it. If it had belonged to his family, the eldest would have been entitled to it, or any of the children, in preference to this son of the servant, verse 18. He was, indeed, born at Sichem; but the others were by no means strangers: ( Calmet.) and what right had the men of this town to give a ruler to Israel? Bible.—Flesh, an usual expression in Scripture to denote kindred. verse 3. Genesis 2:23. 2 Kennicott. 19:13. Calmet.