Legitimacy Illegitimacy and the Right to Rule

This book explores the portrayal of the rise reign and demise of Abimelech in Judges 9 and asks about whose interests this portrayal may have served. The negative depiction of Abimelech's kingship in this chapter coupled with Gideon's rejection of kingship in Judges 8:22-23 has led interpreters to view the passage as anti-monarchic. This perspective clashes with the pro-monarchic stance of Judges 17-21. However while the portrayal of Abimelech's kingship is negative it may yet have served as a legitimation strategy for the monarchy. In support this study examines Judges 9 through three methodological lenses: a narrative analysis a rhetorical analysis and a social scientific analysis.<br/> <br/>In addition anthropological data on early and developing states shows that such states attempt to prevent fissioning (the tendency inherent within political systems to break up and form other similar units) by subverting local leaders groups and institutions and so legitimate the centralization of power. When read in this light Judges 9 supports monarchic interests by seeking to subvert localized rule and alliances in favor of a centralized polity.