Judges 7:20 (KJV)

What does Judges 7:20 mean?

Judges 7:20 describes how Gideon's three groups of men carried out a surprise attack by blowing trumpets, breaking jars, holding lamps, and shouting, “The sword of the LORD, and of Gideon.” This verse shows the moment when Gideon’s small force used noise, light, and a battle cry to startle and confuse the enemy.

Gideon is leading a nighttime attack against the Midianites, following God’s instructions. The men each have a trumpet and a hidden lamp inside a clay jar. At Gideon’s signal, they break the jars to reveal the lamps, blow their trumpets, and shout together. This sudden display is meant to create fear and chaos among the Midianite camp, making them believe they are being attacked by a much larger army.

The Hebrew behind Judges 7:20

• "Trumpets" (שׁוֹפָר, shofar): This word refers to a ram’s horn used as a horn or trumpet. The sound of many shofars would have been loud and alarming, adding to the confusion of the enemy.
• "Pitchers" (כַּד, kad): These are clay jars. Breaking them suddenly would have made a crashing noise and revealed the hidden lamps, creating a dramatic effect in the dark.
• "Lamps" (לַפִּיד, lappid): This word means torches or lamps. The sudden appearance of many lights at night would have made the Midianites think they were surrounded.
• "Sword" (חֶרֶב, cherev): The shout about the “sword of the LORD, and of Gideon” is a battle cry, but the verse does not mention the Israelites actually using swords at this moment. The emphasis is on God’s power and Gideon’s leadership.

Why Judges 7:20 matters

• This verse shows that Gideon’s victory depended on God’s strategy, not on military strength or weapons, since the men used noise and light rather than swords.
• The details highlight how fear and confusion can be powerful tools in battle, especially when used at God’s direction.
• The verse connects to the larger story by showing how God uses unlikely means and small numbers to achieve victory, emphasizing trust in God over human ability.