שופטים, פרק ט׳, פסוק י״ז

Jotham delivers a sharp rebuke to the leaders of Shechem, reminding them of the deep gratitude they owe his father, Gideon. When the Midianites invaded to plunder the land, they made no distinction between the Israelite tribes and the Canaanites. Even the city of Shechem itself was forced into submission and had to supply the invaders with resources [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Because of this shared oppression, Jotham stresses that Gideon's battle was fought directly on their behalf.

To highlight their failure, Jotham presents a twofold moral argument regarding their obligation to Gideon. The first point focuses on his sheer willingness to fight and risk his own life. This immense personal sacrifice alone demanded their gratitude, regardless of whether the battle was ultimately won or lost.

The second point centers on the actual result of the war. Gideon did not merely attempt to help; he succeeded in physically rescuing them from Midianite control. Because he achieved this victory and saved them, it was only right that they reward his actions with loyalty and kindness. Instead, they completely ignored this debt and chose not to repay him [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].