Judges 9:26-35

26Now Gaal son of Ebed moved with his clan into Shechem, and its citizens put their confidence in him.

27After they had gone out into the fields and gathered the grapes and trodden them, they held a festival in the temple of their god. While they were eating and drinking, they cursed Abimelek.

28Then Gaal son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelek, and why should we Shechemites be subject to him? Isn’t he Jerub-Baal’s son, and isn’t Zebul his deputy? Serve the family of Hamor, Shechem’s father! Why should we serve Abimelek?

29If only this people were under my command! Then I would get rid of him. I would say to Abimelek, ‘Call out your whole army!’ ”

30When Zebul the governor of the city heard what Gaal son of Ebed said, he was very angry.

31Under cover he sent messengers to Abimelek, saying, “Gaal son of Ebed and his clan have come to Shechem and are stirring up the city against you.

32Now then, during the night you and your men should come and lie in wait in the fields.

33In the morning at sunrise, advance against the city. When Gaal and his men come out against you, seize the opportunity to attack them.”

34So Abimelek and all his troops set out by night and took up concealed positions near Shechem in four companies.

35Now Gaal son of Ebed had gone out and was standing at the entrance of the city gate just as Abimelek and his troops came out from their hiding place.