Judges 3:16

Now Ehud had made for himself a double-edged sword a cubit long. He strapped it to his right thigh under his cloak

Study Bible

Now Ehud had made for himself a double-edged sword
Ehud, a judge of Israel, crafted a weapon specifically for his mission. The double-edged sword symbolizes the Word of God, which is described as sharper than any two-edged sword in Hebrews 4:12. This weapon was designed for effectiveness in close combat, reflecting the need for precision and decisiveness in spiritual battles. The act of making the sword himself indicates personal preparation and commitment to God's calling.

a cubit long
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. This length suggests a weapon that is easily concealable yet effective for its intended purpose. The specific measurement indicates careful planning and forethought, as Ehud needed a weapon that could be hidden yet still lethal. The size also implies a personal and direct approach to confronting evil, as opposed to relying on larger, more impersonal weapons.

He strapped it to his right thigh
Strapping the sword to his right thigh was strategic, as Ehud was left-handed (Judges 3:15). This unusual placement would have been unexpected, allowing him to bypass security checks that would typically focus on the left side, where a right-handed person would draw a weapon. This detail highlights the importance of using one's unique abilities and perspectives in service to God. It also underscores the theme of God using the unexpected and the weak to accomplish His purposes, as seen throughout Scripture.

under his cloak
Concealing the sword under his cloak allowed Ehud to approach King Eglon without arousing suspicion. This act of concealment can be seen as a metaphor for the hidden nature of God's plans, which are often not immediately apparent to human understanding. It also reflects the wisdom of being "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16) in carrying out God's work. The cloak serves as a reminder of the need for discretion and discernment in fulfilling divine missions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ehud
A left-handed man from the tribe of Benjamin, chosen by God to deliver Israel from Moabite oppression. His left-handedness is significant in the account, as it plays a crucial role in his ability to conceal the weapon and execute his plan.

2. Moab
A nation that oppressed Israel during this period. The Moabites were led by King Eglon, whom Ehud was sent to assassinate as part of God's deliverance plan for Israel.

3. Double-edged sword
A weapon crafted by Ehud, specifically designed for his mission. The sword's double edge symbolizes its effectiveness and the decisive nature of God's deliverance.

4. Right thigh
The location where Ehud concealed his sword. This detail is significant because it highlights Ehud's strategic thinking, as guards would typically check the left side for weapons, assuming right-handedness.

5. Deliverance of Israel
The broader event in which God raises judges like Ehud to deliver Israel from their oppressors, demonstrating His faithfulness and sovereignty.

Teaching Points

God Uses Unlikely Heroes
God often chooses unexpected individuals to accomplish His purposes. Ehud's left-handedness, considered a disadvantage, became a strategic advantage. We should not underestimate how God can use our unique traits for His glory.

Strategic Planning in God's Work
Ehud's careful planning and execution of his mission remind us of the importance of wisdom and strategy in fulfilling God's calling. We should seek God's guidance in planning and executing our tasks.

The Power of God's Deliverance
The account of Ehud illustrates God's power to deliver His people from oppression. It encourages us to trust in God's ability to rescue us from our struggles and challenges.

Courage in Obedience
Ehud's courage to confront King Eglon demonstrates the boldness required to follow God's commands. We are called to act courageously in obedience to God, even when it involves risk.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ehud's left-handedness play a crucial role in the success of his mission, and what does this teach us about God's use of our unique characteristics?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of strategic planning in our spiritual lives and ministries, as demonstrated by Ehud's actions?

3. How does the account of Ehud encourage us to trust in God's deliverance in our personal struggles or in the challenges faced by the church today?

4. What are some modern-day examples of God using unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes, and how can we be open to being used by God in unexpected ways?

5. How can we cultivate the courage to act in obedience to God, even when it involves personal risk or stepping out of our comfort zones? Consider other biblical examples of courageous obedience.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 4:12
The double-edged sword is reminiscent of the Word of God, which is described as sharper than any two-edged sword, able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

1 Samuel 17
David's strategic use of unconventional methods to defeat Goliath parallels Ehud's use of his left-handedness and concealed weapon to defeat King Eglon.

Psalm 144:1
This verse speaks of God training hands for battle, which can be connected to how God equipped Ehud for his mission.