Judges 9:22

Abimelech's Punishment

22 When Abimelech had ruled over Israel three years,

Judges 9:22 Meaning and Commentary

Judges 9:22

When Abimelech had reigned three years over Israel.
] The people in general consenting to what the men of Shechem had done, at least not opposing it, all being desirous of a king, and therefore put up with a mean person, rather than have none; though it is amazing they should, and that they had not rose up as one man against Abimelech, and avenged the blood of the sons of Gideon, who had been so useful and serviceable to them; it is indeed said that he reigned over all Israel, and his reign, such as it was, was very short, as is often the case with wicked princes.

Judges 9:22 In-Context

20 But if not, may fire come from Abimelech and consume the lords of Shechem and Beth-millo, and may fire come from the lords of Shechem and Beth-millo and consume Abimelech."

21 Then Jotham fled, escaping to Beer, and lived there because of his brother Abimelech.

22 When Abimelech had ruled over Israel three years,

23 God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the lords of Shechem. They treated Abimelech deceitfully,

24 so that the crime against the 70 sons of Jerubbaal might come to justice and their blood would be avenged on their brother Abimelech, who killed them, and on the lords of Shechem, who had helped him kill his brothers.