The narrative of Moab sending tribute is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. This event highlights the complex relationship between the Israelites and the Moabites, a neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel.

Biblical Context

The account of Moab sending tribute is found in Judges 3:12-30. During this period, the Israelites repeatedly fell into cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. After the death of Othniel, the first judge of Israel, the Israelites again did evil in the sight of the LORD. As a result, God allowed Eglon, the king of Moab, to gain power over Israel. Eglon allied with the Ammonites and Amalekites, capturing the City of Palms (Jericho) and subjugating the Israelites for eighteen years.

The Tribute

The Israelites were compelled to send tribute to Eglon, a common practice in the ancient Near East where a subjugated nation would send goods or wealth to a dominant power as a sign of submission and to maintain peace. The tribute likely consisted of agricultural produce, livestock, or precious metals, reflecting the economic burden placed upon Israel by their Moabite oppressors.

Ehud's Deliverance

The narrative takes a dramatic turn with the rise of Ehud, a left-handed Benjaminite whom God raised as a deliverer for Israel. Ehud was chosen to deliver the tribute to Eglon. Judges 3:16-17 states, "Now Ehud had made for himself a double-edged sword a cubit long, which he strapped to his right thigh under his cloak. And he brought the tribute to Eglon king of Moab, who was an extremely fat man."

Ehud's left-handedness is a crucial detail, as it allowed him to conceal his weapon on his right thigh, where it would be unexpected. After presenting the tribute, Ehud requested a private audience with Eglon, claiming to have a secret message from God. When alone with the king, Ehud drew his sword and assassinated Eglon, thus initiating Israel's deliverance from Moabite oppression.

Aftermath and Significance

Following Eglon's death, Ehud rallied the Israelites to seize the fords of the Jordan River, preventing the Moabites from escaping or receiving reinforcements. Judges 3:28-30 records Ehud's call to arms: "Follow me, for the LORD has delivered your enemies the Moabites into your hand." The Israelites struck down about ten thousand Moabite warriors, securing peace for the land for eighty years.

This event underscores several theological themes prevalent in the Book of Judges. It illustrates the consequences of Israel's disobedience and the cyclical nature of their relationship with God. Despite their repeated failures, God remained faithful, raising up judges like Ehud to deliver His people. The narrative also highlights God's sovereignty and ability to use unexpected means and individuals to achieve His purposes, as seen in Ehud's left-handedness and cunning strategy.

Cultural and Historical Insights

The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and thus had a distant kinship with the Israelites. Despite this connection, Moab often stood in opposition to Israel, as seen in this account and other biblical narratives. The tribute system reflects the political dynamics of the time, where weaker nations paid homage to stronger ones to avoid destruction or further subjugation.

In summary, the account of Moab sending tribute and the subsequent deliverance by Ehud is a powerful reminder of God's deliverance and the importance of faithfulness to His covenant. It serves as a testament to God's willingness to rescue His people, even when they stray, and His use of unlikely heroes to fulfill His divine plan.