29. If you made me commander of these people, I would get rid of Abimelech. I would say to him, ‘Get your army ready and come out to battle.’ ”
30. Now when Zebul, the ruler of Shechem, heard what Gaal son of Ebed said, he was very angry.
31. He sent secret messengers to Abimelech, saying, “Gaal son of Ebed and Gaal’s brothers have come to Shechem, and they are turning the city against you!
32. You and your men should get up during the night and hide in the fields outside the city.
33. As soon as the sun comes up in the morning, attack the city. When Gaal and his men come out to fight you, do what you can to them.”
34. So Abimelech and all his soldiers got up during the night and hid near Shechem in four groups.
35. Gaal son of Ebed went out and was standing at the entrance to the city gate. As he was standing there, Abimelech and his soldiers came out of their hiding places.