Judges 9:30

The Fall of Shechem

30 When Zebul the governor of the city heard the words of Gaal son of Ebed, he burned with anger.

Judges 9:30 Meaning and Commentary

Judges 9:30

And when Zebul the ruler of the city
Whom Abimelech had placed there under him: heard

the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled;
because he spoke slightly of him, and wished to have his place; perhaps before Zebul was inclined to be on the side of the Shechemites against Abimelech, or at least dissembled that he was; but now, being incensed at the words of Gaal, determined to take the side of Abimelech, and let him know how things were carrying on against him.

Judges 9:30 In-Context

28 Then Gaal son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelech, and who is Shechem, that we should serve him? Is he not the son of Jerubbaal, and is not Zebul his officer? You are to serve the men of Hamor, the father of Shechem. Why should we serve Abimelech?

29 If only this people were under my authority, I would remove Abimelech; I would say to him, ‘Muster your army and come out!’”

30 When Zebul the governor of the city heard the words of Gaal son of Ebed, he burned with anger.

31 So he covertly sent messengers to Abimelech to say, “Look, Gaal son of Ebed and his brothers have come to Shechem and are stirring up the city against you.

32 Now then, tonight you and the people with you are to come and lie in wait in the fields.