שופטים, פרק ט׳, פסוק כ״ו

The arrival of a new figure completely shifts the balance of power in the city of Shechem, setting off a dramatic turning point for its residents. After a long period of anxiety and isolation, a military leader steps onto the scene, bringing a renewed sense of confidence that paves the way for open rebellion.

This leader, Gaal the son of Ebed, originally comes from another nation [רש״י]. He is a proven warrior, arriving in the city accompanied by his loyal soldiers [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. His sudden appearance in Shechem is not merely a coincidence. Rather, it is a deliberate event orchestrated by God to guide the historical chain of events [מלבי״ם].

The primary approach among commentators is that the leaders of Shechem quickly align themselves with Gaal. They place their full trust in his military strength, calculating that he is the one who can finally help them fight against the rule of Abimelech. This newfound reliance brings about an immediate and practical change in their daily behavior. Until this moment, the people of Shechem lived in constant terror of Abimelech. They remained hidden and confined behind their city walls, too afraid to travel the local roads or tend to their fields.

Finding a strong source of support in Gaal gives the residents the courage they desperately need. Empowered by his presence, they finally step outside the city gates to harvest their vineyards and hold public feasts. Ultimately, this newfound bravery leads them to openly curse Abimelech and launch a full rebellion against him [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].