Understanding Judges 7:6

Judges 7:6 states, "And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water." This verse is pivotal in the story of Gideon's selection of warriors to face the Midianites.

Summarized Meaning

This passage describes the selection process of Gideon's army. God instructs Gideon to reduce his troops from a large number to a mere 300 men based on how they drink water from a river. The ones who lapped the water like dogs were chosen, while the rest knelt to drink. This significant reduction serves multiple purposes:

• Divine Selection: God intentionally chooses those who exhibit readiness and alertness.
• Faith vs. Numbers: The outcome shows that victory comes from God, not sheer numbers.
• Symbolism of Loyalty: The men who lap water demonstrate a certain level of commitment and readiness for battle.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the symbolic significance of the men selected by Gideon. He notes that the choice of fighters demonstrates God's control over the circumstances and serves a lesson on reliance on divine strength rather than human capability. Henry explains that the number 300 represents a remnant that is chosen and signifies God's ability to save through a few.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes discusses the practical implications of the lapping method. He describes how the act of drinking with one's hand to the mouth denotes watchfulness and readiness. Barnes highlights that God's choice is often contrary to human logic, reminding us that spiritual discernment is critical in understanding God's ways.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke contributes an understanding of the types of men selected based on their drinking behavior. He suggests that those who lapped were likely more alert and self-disciplined. Clarke also aligns that this unusual test was designed by God to ensure that the glory of the victory would belong solely to Him, further underlining the theme of divine intervention in human affairs.

Cross References

Judges 7:6 is interconnected with several other biblical passages that reinforce its themes. Here are some relevant cross-references:

• 1 Samuel 14:6: Jonathan’s faith in God over numbers during battle.
• 2 Chronicles 20:15: God’s promise to fight battles for His people.
• Psalms 20:7: Trusting in the name of the Lord over military might.
• Matthew 17:20: Faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains.
• 1 Corinthians 1:27: God chooses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise.
• Hebrews 11:32-34: The faith of judges through whom God accomplished great acts.
• Zechariah 4:6: "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit," shows God's mandate for victory.

Thematic Connections

This verse not only illustrates God's selective process but also encourages readers to explore deeper thematic connections across scripture:

• Faith in Adversity: Gideon’s army reduced emphasizes the necessity of faith when faced with overwhelming odds.
• God's Sovereignty: Control over outcomes highlights the nature of God’s governance.
• Qualities of Discipleship: Readiness and alertness are essential traits for those who serve in God’s purpose.

Conclusion

The story of Gideon and the selection of his army presents profound lessons about faith, reliance on God, and the characteristics of those who are chosen to fulfill divine purposes. In studying the connections between this verse and others, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of God's plan throughout scripture.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To deepen your study of the Bible and explore inter-Biblical dialogue, consider utilizing:

• Bible Concordance: A tool to locate verses and themes.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Helps identify connections between verses.
• Bible Reference Resources: A collection of texts that aid in understanding cross-references.