However, Gideon crosses the line when he crosses over (‘abar)102 the Jordan. If the narrative about Gideon had ended in 8:3, Gideon, despite his character flaws as exposed in 6:11–8:3, would appear as a heroic judge, on par with some of the previous major judges. But the narrative continues, and the degeneration of Gideon is documented. Motivated by revenge, Gideon’s excesses are spelled out in the extreme reprisals on his own countrymen. While the cities did not give support, the punishment is unduly severe and sets a precedence for the later excesses of Jephthah. Also, the foil of Jether
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