He also pulled down the tower of PenuelThe tower of Penuel was a significant structure in the city, likely serving as a defensive fortification. Penuel, located east of the Jordan River, was a strategic site. The act of pulling down the tower symbolizes a complete defeat and humiliation of the city. This action by Gideon can be seen as a fulfillment of his earlier threat to the men of Penuel (
Judges 8:9) when they refused to assist him and his men. The destruction of the tower signifies the removal of the city's protection and pride, reflecting the consequences of opposing God's chosen leader. In a broader biblical context, the tearing down of strongholds can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual warfare, where believers are called to demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God (
2 Corinthians 10:4-5).
and killed the men of the city
The execution of the men of Penuel highlights the severity of their offense against Gideon and, by extension, against God's deliverance plan for Israel. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such actions were not uncommon as a means of ensuring loyalty and eliminating future threats. This act of retribution underscores the importance of supporting God's appointed leaders and the dire consequences of failing to do so. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of divine justice and the seriousness of rebellion against God's purposes. This event also foreshadows the ultimate judgment that will come upon those who oppose God's kingdom, as seen in the eschatological prophecies throughout Scripture (e.g.,Revelation 19:11-21).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
GideonA judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his faith and leadership, but also for his later actions that showed a more complex character.
2.
PenuelA city east of the Jordan River. It was significant in Israel's history, being a place where Jacob wrestled with God and was renamed Israel (
Genesis 32:30-31).
3.
The Tower of PenuelA structure within the city, likely a place of defense or a symbol of the city's strength and pride.
4.
The Men of PenuelThe inhabitants of the city who refused to assist Gideon and his men during their pursuit of the Midianite kings, leading to their destruction.
5.
The Midianite KingsThe oppressors of Israel whom Gideon was pursuing. Their defeat was crucial for Israel's deliverance.
Teaching Points
Obedience to God's CallGideon's initial obedience led to victory. We must be attentive and obedient to God's direction in our lives.
Consequences of Pride and RebellionThe men of Penuel faced severe consequences for their pride and refusal to support God's chosen leader. Pride can lead to downfall.
Leadership and AccountabilityGideon's actions remind us that leaders are accountable for their decisions and must act justly and righteously.
The Importance of Community SupportThe refusal of Penuel to support Gideon highlights the importance of unity and support within the community of believers.
God's Sovereignty in DeliveranceDespite human failures, God's plan for deliverance prevails, reminding us of His ultimate control and purpose.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Judges 8:17?
2.How does Judges 8:17 demonstrate God's justice through Gideon's actions?
3.What lessons on leadership can we learn from Gideon's actions in Judges 8:17?
4.How does Gideon's destruction of the tower relate to obedience in Scripture?
5.How can we apply the principle of accountability from Judges 8:17 today?
6.What does Judges 8:17 teach about consequences for opposing God's chosen leaders?
7.Why did Gideon destroy the tower of Penuel in Judges 8:17?
8.What does Judges 8:17 reveal about Gideon's leadership style?
9.How does Judges 8:17 reflect the theme of retribution in the Bible?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Judges 8?
11.What occurred at Peniel in the Bible?
12.Judges 8:4-5: Could 300 men realistically pursue thousands of Midianites without proper resources or logistical support?
13.Judges 12:1-7 - How does the narrative align with or contradict earlier portrayals of tribal unity and cooperation in Judges?
14.John 8:14-18: How do Jesus's statements about His testimony reconcile with other biblical passages that require two or more witnesses?What Does Judges 8:17 Mean
He also pulled down– Gideon’s action here is the follow-through of a promise he made earlier: “So he said to the men of Penuel, ‘When I return safely, I will tear down this tower’ ” (Judges 8:9).
– The phrase “He also” links this judgment on Penuel to what Gideon had just done in Succoth (Judges 8:15-16), underscoring that both towns were treated alike for the same offense—refusing to aid Israel’s exhausted army (compareMatthew 25:42-45 for the seriousness of withholding help).
– Gideon’s decisive act parallels earlier leaders who removed obstacles to Israel’s mission, such as Moses breaking the golden calf (Exodus 32:19) and Joshua burning Ai (Joshua 8:28).
– Key takeaway: God’s appointed deliverer did not overlook unbelief that hindered God’s people; he acted, just as future judgment will be sure and complete (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9).
The tower of Penuel– In ancient cities the tower functioned as both watchtower and refuge (Nehemiah 3:25;Psalm 61:3).
– By tearing it down, Gideon removed the town’s symbol of security and self-reliance, illustratingProverbs 18:10: “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe”. Penuel had trusted masonry over the LORD.
– The city had historical significance; Jacob once wrestled with God nearby and named the place Peniel, “face of God” (Genesis 32:30). Their rejection of God’s deliverer was therefore doubly grievous, contrasting their heritage with present unbelief (Luke 12:48).
And killed the men– The text records a capital judgment, not random violence. Their refusal to support Israel’s divinely led army in time of war amounted to treason (cf.Deuteronomy 20:8-9 for wartime responsibilities).
– Similar judgments fell on those who rejected God’s appointed leaders: Korah’s rebellion (Numbers 16:31-35) and the men of Beth-shemesh who looked into the ark (1 Samuel 6:19).
– This severe outcome foreshadows the New Testament warning that rejecting the ultimate Deliverer brings eternal loss (Hebrews 10:28-29).
Of the city– Corporate accountability is in view; the men represented their community’s stance, reminiscent of Jericho where the city as a whole was placed under the ban (Joshua 6:17-21).
– Their fate stands as a caution: spiritual neutrality or opposition during God’s redemptive work invites judgment (Revelation 3:16).
– The city’s downfall highlights the truth ofGalatians 6:7—“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap”.
summaryJudges 8:17 records Gideon keeping his word to punish Penuel for refusing aid. By tearing down their tower and executing the leaders, he stripped away false security and executed just judgment, demonstrating that opposition to God’s deliverance carries grave consequences. The episode calls believers to trust the LORD as their true strong tower, support His work wholeheartedly, and remember that accountability is certain for individuals and communities alike.
(17)
Beat down the tower.--The importance of the place led to its re-fortification by Jeroboam (
1Kings 12:25).
Verse 17. -
He slew the men of the city. This makes it probable that the
threshing of the men of Succoth was a capital punishment, as there is no reason why the men of Penuel should be more severely punished than the men of Succoth.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
He also pulled downנָתָ֑ץ(nā·ṯāṣ)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5422:To pull down, break downthe towerמִגְדַּ֥ל(miḡ·dal)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4026:A tower, a rostrum, a, bed of flowersof Penuelפְּנוּאֵ֖ל(pə·nū·’êl)Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 6439:Penuel -- 'face of God', a place East of the Jordan, also two Israelitesand killedוַֽיַּהֲרֹ֖ג(way·ya·hă·rōḡ)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2026:To smite with deadly intentthe menאַנְשֵׁ֥י(’an·šê)Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 376:A man as an individual, a male personof the city.הָעִֽיר׃(hā·‘îr)Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 5892:Excitement
Links
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OT History: Judges 8:17 He broke down the tower of Penuel (Jd Judg. Jdg) 
