The answer is: A trumpet, a pitcher and a torch

Judges 7:16

In an epic twist of strategy that seems almost comical by today’s standards, Gideon equipped his army with a trumpet, a torch, and a pitcher. Imagine this: warriors armed only with sound and light, ready to face a vast enemy army! There's a fascinating backstory that makes Gideon's selection of gear shine.

In Judges 6, God famously whittles Gideon's army down from thousands to a mere 300, shaking off those who felt fearful or hesitant. This decision might send chills down a general’s spine today, but it emphasizes a notion of dependence on divine power instead of sheer manpower. The symbolic items—trumpets signaling or rallying and torches illuminating the darkness—demonstrate how God often employs unconventional methods for extraordinary outcomes.

Guess what? The trumpet signals not just any call but is modelled after the shofar, a ram's horn used in ancient Israel for religious events! Also, the revelation of the light from the torches is quite significant, echoing themes of subtlety. It reminds us of the broader biblical theme where light dispels darkness—hard to think of Gideon without pondering later figures like Jesus who said, "I am the light of the world."

So here’s Gideon, with his symbolic yet effective arsenal, embracing vulnerability while inviting divine triumph. And in a real sense, it’s a compelling reminder that even the most unlikely arrangements can lead to transcendent victories!