Bible Discussion Thread

Verse 18, Abimelech is not a legitimate son from marriage but is the son of his fathers maidservant. He would not be in line to inherit, and therefore lead, according to law. Abimelech went to his mothers, the maidservant, people for support in leadership. They paid Abimelech money which was used to kill the legitimate sons of his father in order that their family line would rule. One legitimate son, Jotham escaped. Then Jotham speaks symbolically about what happened starting in verse 8. Perhaps the trees here represent the ultimate goal to have leadership that allows peace and prosperity. The olive tree is a symbol of Israel and an olive branch the symbol of peace and end of conflict. A dove presented Noah with an olive branch. Verse 9, states that peace can not reign over the followers of Abimelech. Verse 10 and 11, the fig tree also represents peace. Adam and Eve sewed fig leaves to try and hide their transgression against God. They tried to present themselves as peaceful and innocent when they had chosen to follow Satan. Again peace can not rule over the followers of Abimelech. The vine also represents the path to peace which rejects sin and injustice. However, verse 14, the bramble represents war and conflict and war will rule over the followers of Abimelech. Trusting in the shadow which is the aftermath that follows war.