After killing the two generals, the Ephraimites launch a strong complaint against Gideon for failing to involve them earlier (8:1–3). But Gideon credits the Ephraimites with the more significant accomplishment, and a potential internal conflict is averted. As Gideon and his three hundred men continue to pursue the escaped Midianite kings east of the Jordan, he seeks help from two Israelite towns, Sukkoth and Peniel (8:4–9). Each, however, refuses to help, and in response, Gideon threatens punishment on his return. Indeed, after successfully capturing the two Midianite kings (8:5–12), Gideon makes good on his threat and returns to the two uncooperative towns (8:13–17). He threshes the elders of Sukkoth with thorns and briers and also tears down the tower of Peniel, as he earlier promised (…