Judges 3:13 (KJV)

What does Judges 3:13 mean?

Judges 3:13 describes how an enemy leader gathered the people of Ammon and Amalek to join him in attacking Israel, defeating them, and taking control of the "city of palm trees." This verse shows a moment when Israel was overpowered by a coalition of neighboring peoples who seized an important city.

The verse is part of a story where Eglon, king of Moab, forms an alliance with the Ammonites and Amalekites to oppress Israel. The "city of palm trees" is often understood to refer to Jericho, a significant location in Israel's history. This event sets the stage for Israel's suffering under foreign rule, which leads to the rise of a deliverer in the next part of the story.

The Hebrew behind Judges 3:13

• "Gathered" (אָסַף, 'asaf): This word means to collect or assemble, emphasizing that Eglon intentionally brought together different groups for a united attack.
• "Possessed" (יָרַשׁ, yarash): This verb often means to take possession or inherit, showing that the enemy did not just attack but actually took control and settled in the captured city.
• "City" (עִיר, 'ir) and "trees" (תָּמָר, tamar): The phrase "city of palm trees" uses these words, pointing to Jericho, which was famous for its palm trees and strategic location.

Why Judges 3:13 matters

• This verse highlights the seriousness of Israel’s situation by showing that multiple enemy nations joined forces, not just one, making the oppression more severe.
• The mention of the "city of palm trees" connects this event to Jericho, reminding readers of Israel’s earlier victories and how those gains could be lost through disobedience or weakness.
• Understanding the coalition and the specific city involved gives context for the deliverance that follows, showing the depth of Israel’s need and the significance of their eventual rescue.