Judges 9:15
Judges 9:15 in Multiple Translations
But the thornbush replied, ‘If you really are anointing me as king over you, come and find refuge in my shade. But if not, may fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon.’
And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, then come and put your trust in my shadow: and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.
And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, then come and take refuge in my shade; and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.
And the thorn said to the trees, If it is truly your desire to make me your king, then come and put your faith in my shade; and if not, may fire come out of the thorn, burning up the cedars of Lebanon.
The thorn bush replied to the trees, ‘If you're really sincere about anointing me as your king, come and find shelter in my shade. But if not, may fire flame out of the thorn bush and burn up the cedars of Lebanon!’
And the bramble said vnto the trees, If ye will in deede anoynt me King ouer you, come, and put your trust vnder my shadowe: and if not, the fire shall come out of the bramble, and consume the Cedars of Lebanon.
And the bramble saith unto the trees, If in truth ye are anointing me for king over you, come, take refuge in my shadow; and if not — fire cometh out from the bramble, and devoureth the cedars of Lebanon.
“The bramble said to the trees, ‘If in truth you anoint me king over you, then come and take refuge in my shade; and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.’
And the bramble said to the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, then come and put your trust in my shadow: and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.
And it answered them: If indeed you mean to make me king, come ye and rest under my shadow: but if you mean it not, let fire come out from the bramble, and devour the cedars of Libanus.
“The thornbush replied, ‘If you truly want to appoint me to be your king, come into the shade of my tiny branches. But if you do not want to do that, I hope/desire that fire will come out from me and burn up all the huge cedar trees in Lebanon country!’”
Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 9:15
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Judges 9:15 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
הָ/אָטָד֮
אֶל
הָ/עֵצִים֒
אִ֡ם
בֶּ/אֱמֶ֣ת
אַתֶּם֩
מֹשְׁחִ֨ים
אֹתִ֤/י
לְ/מֶ֨לֶךְ֙
עֲלֵי/כֶ֔ם
בֹּ֖אוּ
חֲס֣וּ
בְ/צִלִּ֑/י
וְ/אִם
אַ֕יִן
תֵּ֤צֵא
אֵשׁ֙
מִן
הָ֣/אָטָ֔ד
וְ/תֹאכַ֖ל
אֶת
אַרְזֵ֥י
הַ/לְּבָנֽוֹן
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
הָ/אָטָד֮
ʼâṭâd
H329
bramble
Art | N-ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
הָ/עֵצִים֒
ʻêts
H6086
tree
Art | N-mp
אִ֡ם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
בֶּ/אֱמֶ֣ת
ʼemeth
H571
truth
Prep | N-fs
אַתֶּם֩
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Pron
מֹשְׁחִ֨ים
mâshach
H4886
to anoint
V-Qal
אֹתִ֤/י
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM | Suff
לְ/מֶ֨לֶךְ֙
melek
H4428
King's
Prep | N-ms
עֲלֵי/כֶ֔ם
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
בֹּ֖אוּ
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
חֲס֣וּ
châçâh
H2620
to seek refuge
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
בְ/צִלִּ֑/י
tsêl
H6738
shadow
Prep | N-ms | Suff
וְ/אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj | Conj
אַ֕יִן
ʼayin
H369
nothing
Part
תֵּ֤צֵא
yâtsâʼ
H3318
to come out
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
אֵשׁ֙
ʼêsh
H784
fire
N-cs
מִן
min
H4480
from
Prep
הָ֣/אָטָ֔ד
ʼâṭâd
H329
bramble
Art | N-ms
וְ/תֹאכַ֖ל
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אַרְזֵ֥י
ʼerez
H730
cedar
N-mp
הַ/לְּבָנֽוֹן
Lᵉbânôwn
H3844
Lebanon
Art | N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 9:15
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
הָ/אָטָד֮
ʼâṭâd
H329
"bramble"
Art | N-ms
This word refers to a type of thorny plant, like a buckthorn tree. It is used in the Bible to describe a specific location, the thorn tree of Atad. The KJV translates it as Atad or bramble.
Definition: 1) bramble, thorn, buckthorn
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: Atad, bramble, thorn. See also: Genesis 50:10; Judges 9:14; Psalms 58:10.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
הָ/עֵצִים֒
ʻêts
H6086
"tree"
Art | N-mp
This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.
Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax
Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.
אִ֡ם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
בֶּ/אֱמֶ֣ת
ʼemeth
H571
"truth"
Prep | N-fs
This Hebrew word means truth, faithfulness, or stability, and is often used to describe God's character and promises. In Psalm 100:5, it says God's truth endures forever, and in Proverbs 12:17, it emphasizes the importance of truthful speech.
Definition: : faithful 1) firmness, faithfulness, truth 1a) sureness, reliability 1b) stability, continuance 1c) faithfulness, reliableness 1d) truth 1d1) as spoken 1d2) of testimony and judgment 1d3) of divine instruction 1d4) truth as a body of ethical or religious knowledge 1d5) true doctrine adv 2) in truth, truly
Usage: Occurs in 125 OT verses. KJV: assured(-ly), establishment, faithful, right, sure, true (-ly, -th), verity. See also: Genesis 24:27; Psalms 111:7; Psalms 15:2.
אַתֶּם֩
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
מֹשְׁחִ֨ים
mâshach
H4886
"to anoint"
V-Qal
To anoint means to rub oil on someone or something, often to set them apart for a special purpose, like when Samuel anointed David as king in 1 Samuel 16:13. It's a way of showing respect and consecrating someone or something.
Definition: 1) to smear, anoint, spread a liquid 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to smear 1a2) to anoint (as consecration) 1a3) to anoint, consecrate 1b) (Niphal) to be anointed
Usage: Occurs in 66 OT verses. KJV: anoint, paint. See also: Genesis 31:13; 1 Samuel 16:3; Psalms 45:8.
אֹתִ֤/י
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
לְ/מֶ֨לֶךְ֙
melek
H4428
"King's"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
עֲלֵי/כֶ֔ם
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
בֹּ֖אוּ
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
חֲס֣וּ
châçâh
H2620
"to seek refuge"
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
To seek refuge means to flee to a safe place for protection, and it can also mean to trust in God. In the Bible, it appears in Psalms and Proverbs, where people put their hope in God. This concept is important in the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) (Qal) to seek refuge, flee for protection 1a) to put trust in (God), confide or hope in (God) (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: have hope, make refuge, (put) trust. See also: Deuteronomy 32:37; Psalms 36:8; Psalms 2:12.
בְ/צִלִּ֑/י
tsêl
H6738
"shadow"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
A shadow refers to a dark area, often providing shade or protection, like the shadow of a tree in Isaiah 4:6. It can also symbolize the fleeting nature of life, as mentioned in Psalm 102:11.
Definition: 1) shadow, shade 1a) shadow (on dial) 1b) shadow, shade (as protection) 1c) shadow (symbolic of transitoriness of life) Also means: tse.lel (צֵלֶל "shadow" H6752)
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: defence, shade(-ow). See also: Genesis 19:8; Ecclesiastes 7:12; Psalms 17:8.
וְ/אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj | Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
אַ֕יִן
ʼayin
H369
"nothing"
Part
This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.
Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.
תֵּ֤צֵא
yâtsâʼ
H3318
"to come out"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth
Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.
אֵשׁ֙
ʼêsh
H784
"fire"
N-cs
Fire is a powerful symbol in the Bible, representing both God's anger and his refining presence, as seen in Deuteronomy 4:24 and Malachi 3:2-3. It is also used for cooking and warmth. This concept is central to many biblical stories.
Definition: 1) fire 1a) fire, flames 1b) supernatural fire (accompanying theophany) 1c) fire (for cooking, roasting, parching) 1d) altar-fire 1e) God's anger (fig.) Aramaic equivalent: esh (אֶשָּׁא "fire" H0785)
Usage: Occurs in 348 OT verses. KJV: burning, fiery, fire, flaming, hot. See also: Genesis 15:17; Joshua 7:15; Psalms 11:6.
מִן
min
H4480
"from"
Prep
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
הָ֣/אָטָ֔ד
ʼâṭâd
H329
"bramble"
Art | N-ms
This word refers to a type of thorny plant, like a buckthorn tree. It is used in the Bible to describe a specific location, the thorn tree of Atad. The KJV translates it as Atad or bramble.
Definition: 1) bramble, thorn, buckthorn
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: Atad, bramble, thorn. See also: Genesis 50:10; Judges 9:14; Psalms 58:10.
וְ/תֹאכַ֖ל
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
אַרְזֵ֥י
ʼerez
H730
"cedar"
N-mp
A cedar tree, known for its strength and durability, like the cedar wood used to build Solomon's temple in 1 Kings 5-6. The cedar tree was highly valued in ancient times for its timber and wood.
Definition: 1) cedar 1a) cedar tree 1b) cedar timber, cedar wood (in building) 1c) cedar wood (in purifications)
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: cedar (tree). See also: Leviticus 14:4; 1 Chronicles 22:4; Psalms 29:5.
הַ/לְּבָנֽוֹן
Lᵉbânôwn
H3844
"Lebanon"
Art | N-proper
Lebanon is a mountain range in Israel, named for its white snow or limestone peaks, often mentioned in Psalms and other books.
Definition: Combined with biq.ah (בִּקְעָה " Valley" H1237I) § Lebanon = "whiteness" a wooded mountain range on the northern border of Israel
Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: Lebanon. See also: Deuteronomy 1:7; Psalms 104:16; Psalms 29:5.
Study Notes — Judges 9:15
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Judges 9:15 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Judges 9:15
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 9:15
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 9:15
- Trapp's Commentary on Judges 9:15
- Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 9:15
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Judges 9:15
- Cambridge Bible on Judges 9:15
- Whedon's Commentary on Judges 9:15
- Sermons on Judges 9:15
Context — Jotham’s Parable
13But the grapevine replied, ‘Should I stop giving my wine that cheers both God and man, to hold sway over the trees?’
14Finally all the trees said to the thornbush, ‘Come and reign over us.’
15But the thornbush replied, ‘If you really are anointing me as king over you, come and find refuge in my shade. But if not, may fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon.’
16Now if you have acted faithfully and honestly in making Abimelech king, if you have done well by Jerubbaal and his family, and if you have done to him as he deserves— 17for my father fought for you and risked his life to deliver you from the hand of Midian,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 30:2 | They set out to go down to Egypt without asking My advice, to seek shelter under Pharaoh’s protection and take refuge in Egypt’s shade. |
| 2 | Judges 9:20 | But if not, may fire come from Abimelech and consume the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo, and may fire come from the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo and consume Abimelech.” |
| 3 | Hosea 14:7 | They will return and dwell in his shade; they will grow grain and blossom like the vine. His renown will be like the wine of Lebanon. |
| 4 | Isaiah 2:13 | against all the cedars of Lebanon, lofty and lifted up, against all the oaks of Bashan, |
| 5 | Isaiah 37:24 | Through your servants you have taunted the Lord, and you have said: “With my many chariots I have ascended to the heights of the mountains, to the remote peaks of Lebanon. I have cut down its tallest cedars, the finest of its cypresses. I have reached its farthest heights, the densest of its forests. |
| 6 | 2 Kings 14:9 | But Jehoash king of Israel replied to Amaziah king of Judah: “A thistle in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar in Lebanon, saying, ‘Give your daughter to my son in marriage.’ Then a wild beast in Lebanon came along and trampled the thistle. |
| 7 | Daniel 4:12 | Its leaves were beautiful, its fruit was abundant, and upon it was food for all. Under it the beasts of the field found shelter, in its branches the birds of the air nested, and from it every creature was fed. |
| 8 | Ezekiel 19:14 | Fire has gone out from its main branch and devoured its fruit; on it no strong branch remains fit for a ruler’s scepter.’ This is a lament and shall be used as a lament.” |
| 9 | Psalms 104:16 | The trees of the LORD have their fill, the cedars of Lebanon that He planted, |
| 10 | Numbers 21:28 | For a fire went out from Heshbon, a blaze from the city of Sihon. It consumed Ar of Moab, the rulers of Arnon’s heights. |
Judges 9:15 Summary
This verse is saying that the thornbush is not a good choice for a king, because it cannot provide protection or shade, unlike a strong tree, as seen in Judges 9:15. The thornbush is warning the trees that if they are not genuine in their offer, it will bring destruction upon them, similar to the way God judges wickedness, as seen in Jeremiah 21:14. This teaches us that God wants us to trust and follow Him, rather than trying to lead ourselves or follow false leaders, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Jeremiah 17:5-8. By following God's leadership, we can find true refuge and protection, as seen in Psalm 91:1-4.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the thornbush referring to when it says 'come and find refuge in my shade'?
The thornbush is being sarcastic, implying that it does not have the ability to provide shade or protection, unlike a mighty tree, and is highlighting the foolishness of the trees in choosing it as their king, as seen in Judges 9:15, similar to the way a leader is expected to provide guidance and protection in Isaiah 32:2.
What does the thornbush mean by 'may fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon'?
The thornbush is warning the trees that if they are not genuine in their offer, it will bring destruction upon them, much like the way God uses His power to judge wickedness, as seen in Jeremiah 21:14 and Ezekiel 20:47.
Is this verse related to any other biblical themes or stories?
Yes, the story of the trees choosing a king is reminiscent of the story of Israel demanding a king in 1 Samuel 8:4-7, and the thornbush's response can be seen as a warning against the dangers of rejecting God's leadership, as seen in 1 Samuel 12:12-15.
What can we learn from the thornbush's response in this verse?
We can learn that God is not pleased when we reject His leadership and instead choose our own way, as seen in Judges 9:15 and Psalm 2:1-4, and that He will ultimately judge our actions, as seen in Romans 14:12 and 2 Corinthians 5:10.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I may be rejecting God's leadership in my own life, and what are the potential consequences of doing so?
- How can I apply the warning of the thornbush to my own relationships and decisions, and what are some ways that I can prioritize God's guidance and leadership?
- What does this verse reveal about the character of God, and how can I use this understanding to deepen my relationship with Him?
- In what ways can I be a source of refuge and protection for others, as a follower of Christ, and what are some ways that I can point them to the true source of refuge and protection, as seen in Psalm 46:1 and Matthew 11:28?
Gill's Exposition on Judges 9:15
And the bramble said unto the trees,.... Accepting of their offer at once: if ye in trust anoint me king over you; suspecting they were not hearty and cordial in their choice and call to the kingly
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 9:15
And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, then come and put your trust in my shadow: and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 9:15
If in truth you anoint me king over you; if you deal truly and justly in making me king. Put your trust in my shadow; then you may expect protection under my government. Let fire come out of the bramble; instead of protection, you shall receive destruction by me; especially you cedars, i.e. nobles, such as the house of Millo, who have been most forward in this work.
Trapp's Commentary on Judges 9:15
Judges 9:15 And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, [then] come [and] put your trust in my shadow: and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.Ver. 15. If in truth ye anoint me king over you.] Whereunto he also must be entreated for fashionsake: like as Richard III was by the Londoners at the solicitation of Buckingham, who knew his mind and factored for him, as here Abimelech’ s uncles did. This base bramble, a dry, empty, sapless kex and weed, apt and able only to scratch, tear, and vex, must needs be up, and hoised into a high room, and domineer over others. Men of most prostituted consciences are, for most part, the most pragmatical prawlers, saith a grave divine, after undeserved preferments, and the only men to serve themselves viis et modis, as they say, into offices, honours, and places of advancement. Then come and put your trust in my shadow.] At umbra rhamni non est commendabilis. The bramble bush yieldeth no very good shade; the silly sheep flying to it for shelter and defence in weather, is sure to lose part of his fleece, if not of his flesh. Let fire come out of the bramble.] Isidore and many other learned men say, that the bramble being much shaken by the wind, is thereby set on fire, whereby both itself and all the trees about it are consumed. Jotham might allude to this. The counsel is good that one here giveth; Let not the bramble be king; let not earthly things bear rule over thine affections. Fire will arise out of them that will consume thy cedars, emasculate all the powers of thy soul.
One bastard will destroy all the true born sons. Bishop Hall. Testatus, Mercer, Forster, Carthusian, Moller.
Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 9:15
(15) If in truth—i.e., with serious purpose. The bramble can hardly believe in the infatuation of the trees. Put your trust in my shadow.—The mean leaves and bristling thorns of the rhamnus could afford no shadow to speak of, and even such as they could afford would be dangerous; but the fable is full of fine and biting irony. If not.—The bramble is not only eager to be king, but has spiteful and dangerous threats—the counterpart of those, doubtless, which had been used by Abimelech—to discourage any withdrawal of the offer. Let fire come out of the bramble.—Some suppose that there is a reference to the ancient notions of the spontaneous ignition of the boughs of the bramble when rubbed together by the wind. The allusion is far more probably to the use of thorns for fuel: Exodus 22:6, “If fire break out, and catch in thorns, so that the stacks of corn . . . be consumed;” Psalms 58:9, “Or ever your pots be made hot with thorns;” Ecclesiastes 7:6, “the crackling of thorns under a pot.”
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Judges 9:15
Verse 15. Come and put your trust in any shadow] The vain boast of the would-be sovereign; and of the man who is seeking to be put into power by the suffrages of the people. All promise, no performance. Let fire come out of the bramble] A strong catachresis. The bramble was too low to give shelter to any tree; and so far from being able to consume others, that the smallest fire will reduce it to ashes, and that in the shortest time. Hence the very transitory mirth of fools is said to be like the cracking of thorns under a pot. Abimelech was the bramble; and the ceders of Lebanon, all the nobles and people of Israel. Could they therefore suppose that such a low-born, uneducated, cruel, and murderous man, could be a proper protector, or a humane governor? He who could imbrue his hands in the blood of his brethren in order to get into power, was not likely to stop at any means to retain that power when possessed. If, therefore, they took him for their king, they might rest assured that desolation and blood would mark the whole of his reign.
The condensed moral of the whole fable is this: Weak, worthless, and wicked men, will ever be foremost to thrust themselves into power; and, in the end, to bring ruin upon themselves, and on the unhappy people over whom they preside.
Cambridge Bible on Judges 9:15
15. put your trust in my shadow] take refuge in …: an absurdity which sharpens the point of the moral. let fire come out] A fire will sometimes spread from a thornbush to the monarchs of the forest (cf. Isaiah 9:18); the base bramble thus becomes the starting-point of all the ruin. So the fable points a contrast: on the one hand were those who naturally would have been the men to rule, Gideon and his sons, or (generally) more than one able member of the community, but they would have nothing to do with the proposal; on the other hand was the worthless Abimelech, who not only seized power with avidity but threatened those who refused to submit to him. Here the fable is dropped, though an echo of it is heard in Judges 9:20; what follows is not strictly an application of it, but a couple of fresh topics: a stern reproof of the Shechemites for ingratitude, and a warning that they and their upstart chief are doomed to destroy one another.
Whedon's Commentary on Judges 9:15
15. Put your trust in my shadow — The bramble has no shadow worthy of the name, and the language here is a biting irony upon those who had chosen a worthless man for a king.
Sermons on Judges 9:15
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Recipe for Personal Revival by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of personal revival and its connection to Christian growth. He emphasizes that genuine revival leads to real growth, using Hosea |
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Letters to 7 Churches 06 Thyatira-Careless Heart by James Booker | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having the Lord as the center of one's life and turning away from idols. The speaker encourages the audience to focus on J |
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God's Way to Revival by Walter Beuttler | Walter Beuttler preaches on the concept of revival, highlighting the various expressions in the Bible that convey the idea of revival as a return to a previous state or relationshi |
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New Years' Address, January 1869 by J.C. Philpot | J.C. Philpot preaches about the contrast between the spiritually-minded child of God and the carnally-minded worldling, emphasizing the separation between the church and the world |
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Shadows of the Great Rock by John MacDuff | John MacDuff preaches about Christ being the ultimate shelter and refuge for His people, using the imagery of a rock providing shade in the desert to illustrate how Christ adapts t |
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Seek Communion by Charles E. Cowman | Charles E. Cowman preaches about finding strength and renewal in God during times of trial, using the analogy of a flower battered by a storm but revived by the sun the next day. H |
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Hell's Message to a No-Hell Generation by Rolfe Barnard | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching about God's eternal judgment and punishment against sin. He mentions a significant religious event in 1963 where |