Topical Bible: Ehud: A Descendant of Benjamin: And Aher

◄ Ehud: A Descendant of Benjamin: And Aher ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Ehud, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is recognized as a judge of Israel and a deliverer of the Israelites from Moabite oppression. He is a descendant of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Benjamin is known for its warriors and strategic prowess, traits that Ehud exemplified in his leadership and cunning.

Biblical Account

The narrative of Ehud is primarily found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 3:12-30. During a period when the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD, God allowed Eglon, the king of Moab, to gain power over Israel. The Israelites served Eglon for eighteen years, suffering under his rule. In response to their cries for deliverance, God raised up Ehud, the son of Gera, a Benjamite, as a savior for His people.

Ehud is notably left-handed, a detail that plays a crucial role in his mission. Judges 3:15 states, "Again the Israelites cried out to the LORD, and He raised up Ehud son of Gera, a Benjamite, a left-handed man. The Israelites sent him with tribute to Eglon king of Moab."

Ehud's Deliverance of Israel

Ehud's left-handedness allowed him to conceal a double-edged sword on his right thigh, which was unexpected and thus not detected by the guards. After presenting the tribute to Eglon, Ehud requested a private audience with the king, claiming to have a secret message. Once alone with Eglon, Ehud drew his sword and assassinated the king, as recorded in Judges 3:21-22 : "And Ehud reached with his left hand, drew the sword from his right thigh, and plunged it into Eglon’s belly. Even the handle sank in after the blade, and Eglon’s fat closed over it, so that Ehud did not withdraw the sword."

Following the assassination, Ehud escaped, rallied the Israelites, and led them to victory over the Moabites. Judges 3:28-30 recounts, "Follow me, for the LORD has delivered your enemies the Moabites into your hand. So they followed him, seized the fords of the Jordan leading to Moab, and did not allow anyone to cross over. At that time they struck down about ten thousand Moabites, all vigorous and strong; not a single man escaped. So Moab was subdued under the hand of Israel that day, and the land had rest for eighty years."

Ehud and Aher

The mention of Ehud in connection with Aher is found in 1 Chronicles 7:12, where Aher is listed among the descendants of Benjamin. The passage states, "Shuppim and Huppim were the sons of Ir, and Hushim was the son of Aher." The identity of Aher is somewhat obscure, and interpretations vary. Some scholars suggest that Aher may be another name for Ahiram, a descendant of Benjamin, while others propose textual variations or scribal errors.

Legacy

Ehud's account is a testament to God's deliverance through unexpected means and individuals. His bravery and strategic acumen exemplify the qualities of a judge raised by God to lead and protect His people. Ehud's actions brought peace to Israel for eighty years, highlighting the cyclical nature of Israel's faithfulness and God's mercy throughout the period of the judges.