Judges 8:27 Meaning and Explanation
“And Gideon made an ephod thereof, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and all Israel went thither a whoring after it: which thing became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Gideon fashions an ephod from the gold; Israel comes to worship it, and it ensnares him and his house.
What Does Judges 8:27 Mean?
From the gathered gold Gideon fashions an ephod, a priestly garment or object, and places it in his hometown of Ophrah. In time all Israel goes there to it in spiritual unfaithfulness, and the thing becomes a snare to Gideon and his family.
Here is the chapter's sorrowful turn. What may have begun as a memorial or act of devotion drifts into idolatry, drawing hearts away from the LORD whom Gideon had so rightly honored. Even good people can set up things that trip others, and themselves. The verse is a sober reminder to fix worship on God alone, lest the very objects of our zeal become snares to our souls. The phrase went a whoring describes spiritual betrayal, Israel turning from her covenant Lord as from a faithful spouse.
Judges 8:27 in the Original Language
ephod (אֵפוֹד), 'ephod' -- a sacred priestly vestment, here turned, against its purpose, into an object of misplaced devotion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Judges 8:27
What does Judges 8:27 mean?
Gideon fashions an ephod from the gold; Israel comes to worship it, and it ensnares him and his house.