Gideon probably meant that he was the youngest son in the family, and doubted that it would be prudent for him to assume leadership in the expedition above older brothers or others.

 The word may also be translated “weak” or “small.” These meanings seem to fit the context better (see on v. 12). Literally, then, the passage may read, “my family is the weak one,” that is, of all the families of the tribe. Repeatedly we find a similar humility and diffidence in those whom God calls to His service (see Ex. 4:10; Jer. 1:6).