7 Minute Nach

Gaal’s defeat, expulsion, and the massacre of the rest of Shechem

Gaal realizes he is under attack; Zevul goads him to fight

Zevul advises Avimelech to launch a surprise attack

Gaal argues his case for rebellion

Gaal Ben Eved shows up to lead the rebellion

The people of Shechem set up an ambush

After 3 years of rule, Animosity develops between Avimelech and Shechem

Additional commentaries explain Yosam’s message

Yosam’s conclusion and departure

Yosam delivers the main point of his speech

Finally the thorn is offered to rule

The date tree and grapevine are offered as well.

The olive tree is offered the role of leadership

Yosam climbs Mt Gerizim to address Shechem

Gideon’s sons are murdered; Avimelech becomes king

The people of Shechem throw their support behind Avimelech

A choice is presented to the people of Shechem

Avimelech approaches his mother’s family for their support

The nation forgets the miracles Hashem performed and is ungrateful to Gideon’s family

When Gideon passes away the people return to idols

Gideon fathers 70 children plus “One”

Finally there is peace; Gideon retires from public life

Gideon’s monument becomes a source of suffering for his family

Gideon makes a request of the people

The people offer Gideon hereditary rulership

Gideon’s eldest Yeser is unable to perform the execution

Gideon interrogates Zevach and Tzalmuna

Sukkos and Penuel are punished

Gideon interrogates a youth from Sukkos

Zevach and Tzalmuna are captured

Succos and Penuel are threatened for their refusals

Gideon’s request for assistance from Succos is denied

Gideon responds softly and removes their anger

Shevet Ephraim complains about their role in the battle

Two leaders of the Midianite army are captured and executed

The midianites panic, turn on each other, and flee

The attack begins (and some relevant Halachos learnt out)

Gideon lays out his plan of attack

Gideon prepares his men for battle

The soldier’s dream

Gideon is told to secretly approach the edge of the Midianite camp

The remaining force of 300 prepares for battle

The second reduction of the army

The first reduction of the army

As Gideon assembles for battle Hashem wants the force reduced

Gideon requests a second sign

Gideon requests a sign from Heaven

Gideon assembles the Jews for battle

Yoash persuades them to leave Gideon alone

The townspeople demand Gideon be handed over