And build an altar unto the LORD thy God upon the top of this rock, in the ordered place, and take the second bullock, and offer a burnt sacrifice with the wood of the grove which thou shalt cut down.

JUDGES 6:26KJV
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Judges 6:26 (KJV)

What does Judges 6:26 mean?

Judges 6:26 commands Gideon to build a new altar to the LORD on top of a strong rock, using a specific place, and to sacrifice a second bull as a burnt offering using wood from the grove he is to cut down. This verse shows God directing Gideon to replace pagan worship with true worship of the LORD.

In this scene, God is speaking directly to Gideon, who is being called to lead Israel away from idol worship. The instruction to use the wood from the grove—likely from an Asherah pole, which was part of local idol worship—shows that Gideon is to destroy the old symbols of false gods and use them in service to the true God. The verse highlights a turning point where Gideon is asked to take a public stand against idolatry and begin restoring proper worship in Israel.

The Hebrew behind Judges 6:26

  • "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): This word refers to a structure for sacrifices. Here, it emphasizes that Gideon is to build a new, proper altar for the LORD, not reuse the old pagan one.
  • "rock" (מָעוֹז, ma'oz): This word often means a stronghold or fortress, suggesting the altar is to be built on a prominent, secure place, not hidden away.
  • "grove" (אֲשֵׁרָה, asherah): This term refers to a wooden object or pole used in Canaanite worship, usually dedicated to the goddess Asherah. Using its wood for the offering underlines the rejection of idol worship.
  • "burnt sacrifice" (עֹלָה, olah): This is a specific kind of offering where the whole animal is burned, symbolizing complete dedication to God.

Why Judges 6:26 matters

  • This verse clarifies that true worship of the LORD requires removing old idols and their symbols, not just adding God to existing practices.
  • The command to use the wood from the grove for the sacrifice shows a dramatic and public rejection of false gods, making Gideon's obedience visible to the community.
  • Judges 6:26 marks the beginning of Gideon's transformation from a hesitant man to a leader who acts on God's instructions, setting the stage for the rest of his story.