Judges 9:30

30 When Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled.

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 And Gaal the son of Ebed said, "Who is Abimelech, and who are we of Shechem, that we should serve him? Is he not the son of Jerubbaal, and is not Zebul his officer? Serve the men of Hamor the father of Shechem; but why should we serve him?

29 Would that this people were under my hand! Then I would remove Abimelech. I would say to Abimelech, 'Increase your army, and come out.'"

30 When Zebul the ruler of the city heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, his anger was kindled.

31 And he sent messengers to Abimelech secretly, saying, "Behold, Gaal the son of Ebed and his relatives have come to Shechem, and they are stirring up the city against you.

32 Now therefore, go by night, you and the people who are with you, and set an ambush in the field.