‘ And they said one to another, “Who has done this thing?” And when they enquired and asked, they said, “Gideon, the son of Joash, has done this thing.” '
Gideon had made no attempt to hide the fact that he was responsible. Thus when people asked around, seething with fury, the information was soon forthcoming. Gideon had done it. That should have given them pause for thought, for the sanctuary belonged to Joash and his son may have done it at his behest. But their feelings on the matter were strong because they considered that such an act was sacrilege against Baal and Asherah.