This verse from Judges 8:11 describes Gideon's pursuit and attack on the remaining Midianite forces after a significant initial victory. Let's break it down:
"Gideon went up by the way of those who lived in tents on the east of Nobah and Jogbehah..." This provides the geographical context of Gideon's approach. He took a route that led him past the territory of nomadic people (those living in tents) who lived east of the towns of Nobah and Jogbehah. This route likely offered cover or was less expected by the Midianites. He probably went through a less conventional route to evade their scouts.
"...and struck the army..." This is the action itself. Gideon and his men attacked the Midianite army.
"...for the army was secure." This explains why Gideon was successful. The Midianite army was feeling safe, complacent, and likely not expecting an attack from Gideon at that time and location. This sense of security made them vulnerable. They had likely either won some of their previous battles, so they did not expect the next battles to be difficult or were confident in their ability to win due to their size. Gideon took advantage of their lack of vigilance.
In summary, this verse highlights Gideon's strategic thinking and opportunistic tactics. By taking an unexpected route and attacking a complacent enemy, he was able to achieve a further victory against the Midianites. It shows that Gideon did not let up in pursuing the enemy until the conflict was over.
This verse from Judges 8:11 describes Gideon's pursuit and attack on the remaining Midianite forces after a significant initial victory. Let's break it down:
"Gideon went up by the way of those who lived in tents on the east of Nobah and Jogbehah..." This provides the geographical context of Gideon's approach. He took a route that led him past the territory of nomadic people (those living in tents) who lived east of the towns of Nobah and Jogbehah. This route likely offered cover or was less expected by the Midianites. He probably went through a less conventional route to evade their scouts.
"...and struck the army..." This is the action itself. Gideon and his men attacked the Midianite army.
"...for the army was secure." This explains why Gideon was successful. The Midianite army was feeling safe, complacent, and likely not expecting an attack from Gideon at that time and location. This sense of security made them vulnerable. They had likely either won some of their previous battles, so they did not expect the next battles to be difficult or were confident in their ability to win due to their size. Gideon took advantage of their lack of vigilance.
In summary, this verse highlights Gideon's strategic thinking and opportunistic tactics. By taking an unexpected route and attacking a complacent enemy, he was able to achieve a further victory against the Midianites. It shows that Gideon did not let up in pursuing the enemy until the conflict was over.