Judges 9:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Now therefore, if ye have done truly and sincerely, in that ye have made Abimelech king, and if ye have dealt well with Jerubbaal and his house, and have done unto him according to the deserving of his hands;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jotham turns from parable to application, challenging whether Shechem acted honestly toward Gideon's house.
What Does Judges 9:16 Mean?
Leaving the fable, Jotham presses its meaning home. He sets a condition: if they have acted in truth and integrity in crowning Abimelech, and if they have treated Gideon and his family as he deserved, then let what follows stand.
The repeated words 'truly and sincerely' put their conscience on trial. Jotham forces Shechem to measure their deed against the standard of honest gratitude. Gideon had risked everything for them; have they repaid him with murder of his sons? The challenge is one Scripture often makes: not merely what have you done, but have you done it rightly, before God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Judges 9:16
What does Judges 9:16 mean?
Jotham turns from parable to application, challenging whether Shechem acted honestly toward Gideon's house.