880 B
880 B
to tear down
This means, “to violently bring down” or, “to take down and destroy.”
But Gideon was afraid of the people
The connecting word "But" contrasts God's command—tear down the altar, with the reason for Gideon's delayed obedience—he was afraid. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast)
afraid of the people
Gideon was afraid that his fellow Israelites who worshiped the same idol would be angry with him.
so he waited until nighttime
The connecting word "so" connects the reason—Gideon was afraid of the people, with the result—he waited until nighttime to obey. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result)
waited until nighttime
Another way to say this would be, “waited until after dark.” Gideon smashed the altar at night when everyone was asleep so that no one would see him do it.