Topical Encyclopedia Ehud, a significant figure in the Book of Judges, is recognized as the second judge of Israel. His account is primarily found in Judges 3:12-30. Ehud, the son of Gera, was a Benjamite and is notably described as left-handed, a detail that plays a crucial role in his narrative.Historical Context During the time of Ehud, the Israelites had once again fallen into evil practices, prompting the LORD to allow Eglon, the king of Moab, to oppress them. This period of subjugation lasted for eighteen years, during which the Israelites served Eglon. The Moabite oppression was severe, and the Israelites cried out to the LORD for deliverance. Ehud's Mission In response to their cries, God raised Ehud as a deliverer for Israel. Ehud's left-handedness is a key element in his mission. He crafted a double-edged sword about a cubit long and concealed it under his clothing on his right thigh. This strategic placement was likely overlooked by Eglon's guards, who would have expected a weapon to be on the left side, as most warriors were right-handed. Ehud was tasked with delivering a tribute to Eglon. After presenting the tribute, Ehud informed Eglon that he had a secret message for him. Eglon, described as a very fat man, dismissed his attendants to hear the message in private. Ehud then approached Eglon in his private chamber and declared, "I have a message from God for you." As Eglon rose from his seat, Ehud drew his sword with his left hand and thrust it into Eglon's belly. The blade went in so deep that the handle sank in after the blade, and the fat closed over it, leaving the sword unretrievable. Escape and Victory After assassinating Eglon, Ehud locked the doors of the upper room and made his escape. Eglon's servants, assuming he was relieving himself, delayed in checking on him, allowing Ehud to flee. Ehud then rallied the Israelites by sounding a trumpet in the hill country of Ephraim. He led them in battle against the Moabites, seizing the fords of the Jordan River and preventing any Moabite from crossing. The Israelites struck down about ten thousand Moabite warriors, all strong and able-bodied men, ensuring that none escaped. Impact and Legacy Ehud's successful mission resulted in the subjugation of Moab and brought peace to the land for eighty years. His account is a testament to God's deliverance through unexpected means and highlights the importance of faith and courage in the face of oppression. Ehud's left-handedness, often seen as a disadvantage, became a tool for divine intervention, demonstrating that God can use any trait for His purposes. Ehud's narrative serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the deliverance He provides to those who call upon Him. His leadership and bravery are celebrated as a pivotal moment in Israel's history, showcasing the LORD's faithfulness to His people despite their recurring disobedience. Nave's Topical Index Judges 3:15-30But when the children of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised them up a deliverer, Ehud the son of Gera, a Benjamite, a man left handed: and by him the children of Israel sent a present to Eglon the king of Moab. Nave's Topical Index Library Whether the Truth of this Promised Peace Can be Ascribed to those ... The Judges. Judges The Kingdom Conquering Miller's views on the Second Coming of Christ. The Nations of the South-East Against Jovinianus. Chapter xlix The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Book 5 Footnotes Resources Why did God judge Nineveh so harshly in the book of Nahum? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christians judge the teachings of their leaders? | GotQuestions.org If we are born in sin, how is it fair for God to judge us for our sin? | GotQuestions.org Judge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Judge: Appointed by the Persians Judge: Character of, and Precepts Relating To Judge: Corrupt: The Judges of Jezreel Judge: Judges (Outstanding Leaders) of Israel: During the Time when the Land Was Ruled by Judges Judge: Kings and Other Rulers As Judge: Samson: Samuel As the Leader (Judge) Judge: Samson: The Sons of Samuel Related Terms |
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