Judges 6:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Judges 6:20
20 And the angel of God said unto him, Take the flesh and the unleavened cakes, and lay them upon this rock, and pour out the broth. And he did so.
Chapter Context
Judges 6 is a cyclical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, mercy, obedience. Written during the pre-monarchic period (c. 1375-1050 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Without central leadership, Israel faced constant threats from surrounding peoples like the Philistines and Midianites.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Judges and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Judges 6:20
20 And the angel of God said unto him, Take the flesh and the unleavened cakes, and lay them upon this rock, and pour out the broth. And he did so.
Analysis
The Angel of God instructs Gideon to place the meat and unleavened cakes on a rock and pour out the broth. This transformation from meal to sacrifice reveals the Angel's divine nature and purpose. The rock (sela, סֶלַע) becomes an altar, and the food becomes an offering. Gideon's obedience—'he did so'—demonstrates growing faith despite confusion about the encounter's meaning. The rock altar prefigures Christ as the Rock (1 Corinthians 10:4), the foundation of acceptable sacrifice.
Historical Context
Using natural rock formations as altars appears throughout patriarchal and judges narratives (Genesis 28:18, Judges 13:19-20). These simple altars contrasted with elaborate Canaanite temple complexes, emphasizing direct access to God without priestly mediation (though Levitical priesthood existed). The instruction to pour out broth may relate to drink offerings prescribed in Mosaic law (Numbers 28:7), though this offering's spontaneous nature differs from prescribed temple ritual.
Reflection
- How does the transformation of a meal into a sacrifice illustrate how God transforms ordinary life into worship?
- What does Gideon's obedience despite confusion teach about faithful response to God's Word before full understanding?
- How does Christ as the Rock provide the foundation for acceptable worship and sacrifice?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Judges 13:19