Eglon was a king of Moab mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 3:12-30. His reign is noted for the oppression of the Israelites, which was a consequence of their disobedience to God. Eglon's account is a significant episode in the cyclical pattern of sin, servitude, supplication, and salvation that characterizes the period of the Judges.

Historical Context

Eglon's rise to power occurred during a time when the Israelites had turned away from the Lord, engaging in idolatry and evil practices. As a result, God allowed Eglon to gain strength and subdue Israel as a form of divine judgment. Judges 3:12 states, "Once again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD, so He strengthened Eglon king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the LORD."

Alliance and Conquest

Eglon formed a coalition with the Ammonites and Amalekites, two other groups that were often hostile to Israel. This alliance enabled him to defeat the Israelites and capture the City of Palms, which is identified as Jericho. Judges 3:13-14 records, "Eglon came and attacked Israel, and they took possession of the City of Palms. The Israelites served Eglon king of Moab eighteen years."

Oppression and Tribute

Under Eglon's rule, the Israelites were subjected to heavy oppression and were required to pay tribute to Moab. This period of subjugation lasted for eighteen years, during which the Israelites suffered greatly under the Moabite yoke. The tribute likely included agricultural produce, livestock, and possibly precious metals, which would have been a significant burden on the Israelite economy and morale.

Ehud's Deliverance

The deliverance of Israel from Eglon's oppression came through Ehud, a left-handed Benjaminite whom God raised as a judge. Ehud crafted a double-edged sword and concealed it on his right thigh, a strategic move given his left-handedness. He presented the tribute to Eglon and then requested a private audience, claiming to have a secret message for the king.

Judges 3:20-21 narrates the dramatic encounter: "Ehud then approached him while he was sitting alone in the cool upper room and said, 'I have a message from God for you.' As the king rose from his seat, Ehud reached with his left hand, drew the sword from his right thigh, and plunged it into Eglon's belly."

Eglon's Death and Aftermath

Eglon's death was both swift and decisive. The account describes how the sword was swallowed by Eglon's corpulent body, and Ehud made his escape, locking the doors behind him. The delay in discovering Eglon's death allowed Ehud to rally the Israelites, who then defeated the Moabites, securing eighty years of peace for Israel.

Theological Significance

Eglon's account serves as a reminder of the consequences of Israel's disobedience and the faithfulness of God in delivering His people when they repent. It highlights the sovereignty of God in using even foreign rulers to accomplish His purposes and the unexpected means by which He can bring about deliverance. The narrative underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and reliance on His strength for victory over oppression.