I will not rule over you, to wit, as a king, which you desire. The Lord shall rule over you, in a special manner, as he hath hitherto done, by judges, whom God did particularly appoint and direct, even by Urim and Thummim, and assist upon all occasions; whereas kings had a greater power, and only a general dependence upon God, as other kings had. Compare 1 Samuel 8:6,7.
Related Commentaries of Judges 8:23
Judges 8:23
23 And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.