29 How I wish I controlled these people! Then I’d get rid of Abimelech. I would tell him, ‘Get yourself a big army and come out.’ ”
30 Zebul, Shechem’s ruler, heard what Gaal (son of Ebed) had said, and he became angry.
31 He secretly sent messengers to Abimelech. “Watch out! Gaal (son of Ebed) and his brothers have come to Shechem. They have turned the city against you.
32 You and your men must start out tonight. Set an ambush ⌊for them⌋ in the fields ⌊around Shechem⌋.
33 In the morning, when the sun rises, get up quickly and raid the city. When Gaal and his men come out to attack you, do whatever you want to him.”
34 Abimelech and all his troops started out at night. He used four companies to set ambushes around Shechem.
35 Gaal (son of Ebed) went out and stood at the entrance to the city. Then Abimelech and his troops rose from their ambush.