Decoding the Gideon Symbol: A Torch and Pitcher of Faith

The symbol of The Gideons International is a two-handled pitcher and torch, a powerful visual representation drawing directly from the biblical narrative of Gideon’s victory over the Midianites as recounted in Judges 7. This emblem is not merely a decorative element; it’s a profound statement of faith, courage, and the power of God working through seemingly ordinary individuals.

The Biblical Foundation: Gideon’s Triumph

To truly understand the significance of the Gideons’ symbol, we must delve into the story that inspires it. The Book of Judges tells of Gideon, an Israelite who was called by God to liberate his people from the oppressive Midianites. Outnumbered and seemingly outmatched, Gideon initially doubted his ability to fulfill this divine mission. However, through a series of tests and signs, God reassured Gideon of His support and presence.

God strategically reduced Gideon’s army from thousands to a mere 300 men. This reduction was crucial to demonstrate that the victory would be attributed to God’s power, not human strength. Gideon divided his small force into three companies and armed each man with a trumpet, an empty pitcher, and a torch hidden inside the pitcher.

Under the cover of darkness, Gideon and his men surrounded the Midianite camp. At a prearranged signal, they shattered their pitchers, revealing the torches, blew their trumpets, and shouted, “A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!” The sudden chaos, combined with the light and sound, created confusion and panic among the Midianites. They turned on each other, and the Israelite army routed them, securing a decisive victory.

Unpacking the Symbolism

Each element of the Gideons’ symbol carries significant weight:

• The Two-Handled Pitcher: The pitcher, often made of clay, represents the fragility and humility of human vessels. Just as the pitcher was easily broken, so too are humans prone to weakness and limitations. The two handles can symbolize partnership, representing both the individual Gideon and God working together, or the partnership between The Gideons International members and God. In another interpretation, the two handles represent the Old and New Testaments, holding the truth of God’s Word.

• The Torch: The torch symbolizes the light of God’s Word, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and the illumination that dispels darkness and ignorance. It represents the truth that can be brought to the world through sharing Scripture. Revealing the torch by breaking the pitcher signifies the act of sharing that truth and letting it shine brightly. It also represents courage.

The Gideon Symbol Today

The two-handled pitcher and torch serve as a constant reminder of the Gideons’ mission: to spread the Gospel, just as Gideon spread the word through his victory. You’ll find this emblem prominently displayed on the Bibles and New Testaments they place in hotel rooms, hospitals, prisons, and other locations around the world. It’s a symbol of hope, encouragement, and the transformative power of faith.

The Gideons International sees their work as a continuation of Gideon’s calling, not just to liberate people from physical oppression, but to liberate them from spiritual darkness through the message of Jesus Christ. They understand that the power to change lives comes not from themselves but from God’s Word.

As educators we can learn a lot from examining the symbolism associated with The Gideons International. The Games Learning Society explores these themes often, with the goal of finding novel ways to incorporate these lessons in our school curriculums. Feel free to visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does the Gideon symbol mean?

The Gideon symbol – a two-handled pitcher and torch – represents the biblical story of Gideon’s victory over the Midianites. The pitcher symbolizes the fragility of humanity, and the torch represents the light of God’s Word spreading through the world.

2. What religious affiliation are the Gideons?

The Gideons International is an interdenominational association of Christian business and professional men and their wives, serving together to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

3. What are the core spiritual beliefs of the Gideons?

All Gideons believe that:

• The Bible is the inspired, infallible, inerrant Word of God.
• The Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God.

4. Are the Gideons biblical?

While the name and symbol are derived from the biblical figure of Gideon, The Gideons International is a modern organization dedicated to spreading the Christian faith through the distribution of Bibles and personal testimony. They strive to follow biblical principles in their service.

5. Do Gideons believe in Jesus?

Yes, absolutely. A core belief of The Gideons International is that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. They are committed to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

6. What are the Gideons now called?

The Gideons International maintains its original name. However, their distribution efforts can also be referred to as “GOOD NEWS for Everyone!” This initiative focuses on placing and distributing Scriptures to introduce others to Jesus.

7. Can you take a Gideon Bible from a hotel room?

Generally, The Gideons International does not object to individuals taking a Bible from a hotel room. Some believe they hope that taking a Bible will lead to people reading and being touched by its message.

8. Do Gideons believe in the Old Testament?

Yes, Gideons distribute complete Bibles, which include both the Old and New Testaments. They believe in the entirety of Scripture as the inspired Word of God.

9. Why is there a Bible in every hotel room?

The Gideons International began placing Bibles in hotel rooms as a way to provide comfort and guidance to travelers who may be lonely or in need of spiritual encouragement.

10. Can Mormons be Gideons?

Currently, The Gideons International does not accept members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as members, citing differences in theological beliefs.

11. Why is Gideon Bible only in hotels?

Gideon Bibles are not only in hotels. They can also be found in hospitals, prisons, schools, and other public places. The focus on hotels came from its origins and provides a concentrated way to reach a wide and often transient population. Economically, it’s a cost-effective amenity for hotels because The Gideons donate them freely.

12. Do Gideons still exist?

Yes, The Gideons International is a vibrant and active organization with a presence in approximately 200 countries, territories, and possessions across the globe.

13. What does the name Gideon mean in Hebrew?

In Hebrew, the name Gideon means “feller” or “hewer,” often interpreted as a great warrior. It can also mean “One who has a stump in place of a hand” or “One who cuts down“.

14. Can a pastor be a Gideon?

Generally, active clergy are not eligible for membership in The Gideons International. Membership is typically comprised of business and professional men (retired or current) who are active members of an evangelical or Protestant church.

15. Who funds the Gideons?

The Gideons International is funded through donor contributions, membership dues, and investment income.