Judges 3:18

After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute, he ushered out those who had carried it.

Study Bible

After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute
The phrase "After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute" marks a significant moment in the narrative. Ehud, a judge of Israel, is fulfilling a duty that was both political and religious. The "tribute" refers to a payment or offering made to Eglon, the king of Moab, who had subjugated Israel. In the Hebrew context, the word for tribute, "מִנְחָה" (minchah), often denotes a gift or offering, which can be seen as a form of submission or appeasement. This act of presenting tribute highlights the Israelites' subjugation under foreign rule, a recurring theme in the Book of Judges, where Israel's disobedience leads to oppression by surrounding nations. Historically, such tributes were common in the ancient Near East as a sign of vassalage and submission to a more powerful ruler.

he ushered out those who had carried it
The phrase "he ushered out those who had carried it" indicates Ehud's strategic planning and cunning. The act of ushering out the carriers suggests a deliberate move to ensure privacy and security for what Ehud was about to do next. In the Hebrew text, the verb "ushered out" implies a careful and intentional action. This moment is pivotal as it sets the stage for Ehud's assassination of King Eglon, which is a turning point in the narrative. The carriers of the tribute were likely unaware of Ehud's plan, highlighting his role as a divinely appointed deliverer who uses wisdom and strategy to liberate Israel. This action reflects the broader biblical theme of God using unexpected means and individuals to achieve His purposes, often turning the tables on the oppressors of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ehud
A left-handed judge of Israel from the tribe of Benjamin, chosen by God to deliver Israel from Moabite oppression.

2. Tribute
A payment made by the Israelites to Eglon, the king of Moab, as a sign of subjugation and servitude.

3. Eglon
The king of Moab who oppressed Israel for eighteen years.

4. Moab
A nation located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel.

5. Israelites
The people of God, who were under Moabite oppression due to their disobedience to God.

Teaching Points

God's Deliverance through Unlikely Means
Ehud, a left-handed man, was an unlikely hero. God often uses unexpected people and methods to accomplish His purposes.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's subjugation to Moab was a direct result of their disobedience to God. This serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness.

The Role of Courage in God's Plan
Ehud's bravery in approaching Eglon demonstrates the courage required to follow God's calling, even in dangerous situations.

The Importance of Repentance
Israel's cycle of sin and repentance highlights the need for genuine repentance and turning back to God.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite Israel's failures, God remained sovereign and orchestrated their deliverance, showing His control over history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ehud's left-handedness play a significant role in God's plan for delivering Israel, and what does this teach us about God's use of our unique traits?

2. In what ways does the cycle of sin and deliverance in Judges reflect our own spiritual journeys, and how can we break free from this cycle?

3. How can we apply the lesson of Israel's disobedience and subsequent oppression to our own lives in terms of the consequences of turning away from God?

4. What are some modern-day "tributes" or burdens we carry that signify our subjugation to sin, and how can we seek deliverance through Christ?

5. How does the account of Ehud encourage us to act courageously in our faith, and what are some practical steps we can take to be bold in our Christian walk?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
Discusses blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which provides context for why Israel was under Moabite oppression.

Judges 2:16-19
Describes the cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that characterizes the period of the judges.

1 Samuel 8:5-20
The Israelites' request for a king, showing their desire for human leadership over divine guidance, similar to their earlier reliance on judges.

Romans 6:16
Discusses being slaves to sin or righteousness, paralleling Israel's subjugation to Moab due to their disobedience to God.