Zebah and Zalmunna
Biblical Profile
Zebah and Zalmunna were two Midianite kings who led a massive force of 135,000 men against Israel. They were famously pursued and defeated by Gideon and his small band of 300 men. After fleeing across the Jordan, they were eventually captured at Karkor. Gideon brought them back as trophies of victory but also to settle a blood feud, as they had killed his brothers at Mount Tabor. After they confessed to the murders, Gideon executed them himself when his young son Jether was too afraid to do so. Gideon also tool the crescent-shaped ornaments from their camels' necks, which were likely symbols of their royalty or pagan deities.
Theological Significance
The defeat of Zebah and Zalmunna is a proof God's ability to grant victory against overwhelming odds through a chosen and humble leader like Gideon. Their names are remembered in an imprecatory psalm (Psalm 83) as symbolic of the enemies of God who are subdued and brought to shame. Their story emphasizes that those who oppress God's people will ultimately face divine justice.
Scripture References
FAQ
Who were Zebah and Zalmunna?expand_more
They were the two kings of Midian who were defeated, captured, and executed by Gideon.
Why did Gideon kill them?expand_more
In addition to being national enemies, they had personally murdered Gideon's brothers at Mount Tabor.
What were the "crescents" on their camels?expand_more
They were likely golden ornaments that represented their status as kings or their worship of astral deities.
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