Judges 8:35 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "Neither showed they kindness to the house of Jerubbaal, namely, Gideon, according to all the goodness which he had shewed unto Israel." This verse comes in the aftermath of the Israelites' victory over the Midianites, led by Gideon. After this successful battle, Gideon declined the offer of kingship, but upon request, he was made a judge over Israel. However, his leadership was not without its challenges, as we see from this verse.

This verse reveals the ingratitude of the Israelites towards Gideon and his family, as well as their failure to show kindness to his household. The reference to Gideon as Jerubbaal reminds us of the name change given to Gideon by God, which meant "Let Baal contend against him" (Judges 6:32). Baal was a false god worshipped by many in Israel at that time, and Gideon's name change reflected his rejection of idolatry and his commitment to the true God. Therefore, the refusal to show kindness to Gideon's house can be understood as a rejection of God's chosen leader and an affront to the one true God.

The themes of gratitude, loyalty, and faithfulness are evident in this verse. Gideon had demonstrated great bravery and faith in leading the Israelites to victory, yet they failed to reciprocate his goodness towards them. This ingratitude is a recurring theme throughout the book of Judges, as the Israelites repeatedly turn away from God and forget His deliverance in favor of idolatry and rebellion. The failure to show kindness to Gideon's house is emblematic of the people's unfaithfulness to both their leader and their God.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance. In the previous chapter, Gideon had led the Israelites to victory over the Midianites, but after the battle, he made an ephod (a sacred object) from the spoils of war. This ephod became an object of idolatrous worship for the Israelites, and Gideon's family became embroiled in this idolatry. This idolatrous deviation from God's commands may have contributed to the lack of kindness shown to Gideon's household, as the people may have viewed them as complicit in the sin of idolatry.

The symbolism in this verse is rich and multi-layered. Gideon's leadership and the Israelites' response to it can be seen as a foreshadowing of the greater rejection of God's authority and sovereignty throughout the Bible. Gideon's struggle against idolatry mirrors the Israelites' perennial battle with faithfulness to God, and the lack of kindness shown to his house symbolizes the spiritual waywardness of the people.

In a broader sense, this verse also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ingratitude and unfaithfulness. The Israelites' failure to show kindness to Gideon's household resulted in division and unrest among them, leading to further idolatry and sin. This stands as a warning to all believers about the consequences of turning away from God and failing to show gratitude for His deliverance and provision.

In conclusion, Judges 8:35 is a poignant reminder of the importance of gratitude, faithfulness, and loyalty in our relationship with God and with those whom He has appointed to lead us. The verse serves as a sobering reflection on the consequences of unfaithfulness and the enduring need for repentance and gratitude in our walk with God.