שופטים, פרק ז׳, פסוק י״ז

Right before launching a critical military operation, a leader must establish a clear strategy for his troops. Gideon positions himself as the ultimate role model for his fighters, anchoring his entire battle plan in a distinct display of personal example.

The primary approach among commentators is that Gideon instructs his men to watch his actions closely and use him as their exact guide [רש"י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This directive goes beyond mere imitation; it establishes a strict rule for timing. The fighters are ordered to hold their positions and wait, doing absolutely nothing until their leader makes the first move. Because Gideon is the one stepping right up to the edge of the enemy camp, it is essential that he initiates the attack [מלבי"ם].

The instructions are emphasized further to stress the absolute precision required from the soldiers. They are expected to mirror their leader's actions flawlessly, doing exactly as he does without the slightest deviation [מלבי"ם].