שופטים, פרק ח׳, פסוק ל״ה

The true measure of a nation's loyalty to a departed leader is often revealed in how they treat the family left behind. Following the death of their deliverer, the Israelites failed this test of character completely. They displayed profound ingratitude toward the man who had done so much for them. Instead of honoring his memory, they refused to extend any kindness or proper repayment to his surviving household for the immense good he had accomplished on their behalf [מצודת דוד].

This failure was not merely a passive lack of appreciation. Their ungratefulness soon took the form of active cruelty, culminating in the brutal murder of his sons, a tragic event that unfolds as the story continues [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. To emphasize the magnitude of this betrayal, the narrative identifies the leader by both of his names, Jerubbaal and Gideon. While a single name would have sufficed, presenting his complete, dual identity ensures there is absolute clarity regarding exactly who was being forgotten, reflecting a broader biblical style of using two names to firmly establish identity [רד״ק].