Abimelech rules
And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal [i.e. Gideon] went to Shechem to his mother's relatives, and spoke to them and to the whole clan of the household of his moth..., spanning 3 years associated with Abimelech.
Description
And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal [i.e. Gideon] went to Shechem to his mother's relatives, and spoke to them and to the whole clan of the household of his mother's father, saying, "Speak, now, in the hearing of all the leaders of Shechem, 'Which is better for you, that seventy men, all the sons of Jerubbaal, rule over you, or that one man rule over you?' Also, remember that I am your bone and your flesh." (JDG 9:1-2) Now Abimelech ruled over Israel three years. (JDG 9:22) When the men of Israel saw that Abimelech was dead, each departed to his home. Thus God repaid the wickedness of Abimelech, which he had done to his father in killing his seventy brothers. (JDG 9:55-56)
Details
- Type
- Reign
- Person
- Abimelech
- Start
- ~1163 BC(2841 AH)
- End
- ~1160 BC(2844 AH)
- Duration
- 3 years
- Start Reference
- JDG 9:22
- End Reference
- JDG 9:22
Notes
START:*HYPOTHESIS: Abimelech's treachery that brought about his rule occurred at the end of Gideon's 40-year period of peace upon Gideon's death and the search for a successor. [Shulman date p83] [Ussher date p54] END:[Shulman date p83] [Ussher date p54]
Related Reign Epochs
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Abimelech rules occur in Bible history?
Abimelech rules occurred approximately ~1163 BC to ~1160 BC. This is 2841–2844 AH (Anno Hominis — years from Creation using the Ussher chronology, where Year 1 = ~4004 BC). This period lasted 3 years.
What does “AH” mean in Bible chronology?
AH stands for “Anno Hominis” (Year of Man), a chronological system that counts years from Creation. Under the Ussher chronology, Year 1 AH corresponds to approximately 4004 BC.