Bible Figure
Gaal
male human biblical figure in Judges 9:26–41, son of Ebed (aka Eved)
Gaal son of Ebed led a challenge against Abimelech's rule at Shechem and was defeated by Zebul's strategy and Abimelech's forces.
Biography
Judges 9 says Gaal son of Ebed came with his relatives to Shechem and gained the confidence of its leaders. During a festival he boasted against Abimelech and challenged him to battle. Zebul, the city's governor, secretly informed Abimelech and advised an ambush. When Gaal saw Abimelech's troops descending from the hills, Zebul mocked his earlier dismissal of the threat. Gaal went out to fight but was defeated, and Zebul expelled him and his relatives from Shechem.
Biblical Significance
Gaal's failed revolt forms part of the violent unraveling of Abimelech's kingship and the fulfillment of Jotham's warning concerning Abimelech and Shechem.