Book of Judges - Chapter 6 - Verse 24
Meaning
After Gideon successfully defeated the Midianites with only 300 men, he built an altar to the Lord in Ophrah of the Abiezrites as a symbol of gratitude and worship. The name he gave to the altar, Jehovahshalom, means "The Lord is Peace." This act of building an altar and naming it represents Gideon's acknowledgment of God's faithfulness and protection throughout the battle. By calling the altar Jehovahshalom, Gideon was declaring that true peace and security come from trusting in the Lord. This altar served as a reminder to future generations of the peace and victory that God had brought to the Israelites. The fact that the verse mentions the altar still being in Ophrah of the Abiezrites "unto this day" indicates the lasting impact of Gideon's faith and the continuing presence of God's peace among His people.
Theological Overview
When Gideon built an altar to the LORD and named it Jehovahshalom, he was expressing his gratitude for the peace and deliverance that God had brought to his people. The name Jehovahshalom means "The LORD is Peace" and reflects not only the peace that Gideon experienced personally but also the peace that God provides to His people in times of trouble. By choosing this name for the altar, Gideon was acknowledging God's faithfulness and protection throughout the challenges he had faced. The location of the altar in Ophrah of the Abiezrites served as a reminder to future generations of the peace that comes from trusting in the LORD. This act of building an altar and giving it a specific name not only commemorated the current victory but also served as a testament to God's character and provision for His people. Even today, the name Jehovahshalom continues to remind believers of God's unchanging peace and faithfulness.