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

◄ Ehud: A Descendant of Benjamin: And Ahiah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Ehud, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is best known as a judge of Israel who delivered the Israelites from Moabite oppression. He is a descendant of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The account of Ehud is primarily found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 3:12-30.

Background and Context

The period of the judges was a tumultuous time in Israel's history, characterized by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. After the death of Joshua, the Israelites frequently turned away from God, leading to their subjugation by surrounding nations. Ehud emerges as a deliverer during one such period of oppression under Eglon, the king of Moab.

Ehud's Mission

Ehud, described as a left-handed man, was chosen by God to deliver Israel. His left-handedness is a notable detail, as it played a crucial role in his mission. The Israelites sent Ehud to deliver tribute to Eglon, and he used this opportunity to execute a daring plan to free his people.

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 allowed him to conceal the 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. Once alone with the king, Ehud drew his sword and killed Eglon, thus initiating the liberation of Israel from Moabite control.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following Eglon's assassination, Ehud escaped and rallied the Israelites to seize the fords of the Jordan River, preventing the Moabites from escaping. 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 men, securing peace for the land for eighty years.

Ehud's account is a testament to God's deliverance through unexpected means and individuals. His cunning and bravery exemplify the divine empowerment of leaders to achieve God's purposes, even when facing overwhelming odds.

Ahiah

Ahiah, also known as Ahijah, is a less prominent figure associated with the tribe of Benjamin. The name Ahiah appears in various contexts within the Old Testament, often referring to different individuals. However, in the context of Benjamin, Ahiah is mentioned as a descendant of Benjamin in genealogical records.

1 Samuel 14:3 mentions Ahiah in the context of King Saul's reign: "Ahijah son of Ahitub, the brother of Ichabod, son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the priest of the LORD in Shiloh, was wearing an ephod." This Ahiah served as a priest during a critical period in Israel's history, highlighting the continued religious significance of the tribe of Benjamin.

The tribe of Benjamin, though small, played a crucial role in Israel's history, producing notable leaders and warriors. Ehud and Ahiah, as descendants of Benjamin, reflect the tribe's enduring legacy in the narrative of God's chosen people.