Lifted up their head — That is, recovered not their former strength or courage, so as to conquer or oppress others. Forty years — To the fortieth year, from the beginning of the Midianitish oppression. The days, &c. — As long as Gideon lived.
Related Commentaries of Judges 8:28
Judges 8:28
28 Thus was Midian subdued before the children of Israel, so that they lifted up their heads no more. And the country was in quietness forty years in the days of Gideon.