An oxgoad is a traditional farming implement used primarily in ancient agrarian societies, including those described in the Bible. It is a long, pointed stick used by farmers to prod oxen while plowing fields, ensuring that the animals maintain a straight path and continue moving forward. The oxgoad is mentioned in the Bible in the context of its use as an improvised weapon, highlighting its significance beyond agricultural purposes.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 3:31 · The most notable mention of an oxgoad in the Bible is in the account of Shamgar, one of the judges of Israel. The verse states: "After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath. He too saved Israel, striking down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad. So he also saved Israel." This passage underscores the oxgoad's role as a tool of deliverance in the hands of Shamgar, who, despite its primary function as a farming implement, used it effectively in battle against the Philistines. This account illustrates the theme of God using ordinary means and people to achieve extraordinary victories.

2. 1 Samuel 13:19-21 · While the oxgoad is not directly mentioned in this passage, it provides context for the scarcity of weapons in Israel during the time of Saul. The Philistines had removed all blacksmiths from the land to prevent the Hebrews from making swords or spears. As a result, tools like the oxgoad, along with plowshares and mattocks, were likely adapted for defense and combat, as seen in Shamgar's account.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Israel, the oxgoad was a common tool among farmers. Typically, it was about eight to ten feet long, with a pointed end for prodding the oxen and sometimes a flat, chisel-like end for cleaning the plow. The use of such a tool in battle, as demonstrated by Shamgar, reflects the resourcefulness and adaptability of the Israelites during times of oppression and conflict.

The account of Shamgar and the oxgoad is often interpreted as a testament to God's providence and empowerment of His people. Despite the lack of conventional weapons, God enabled Shamgar to deliver Israel using what was available to him. This narrative aligns with other biblical themes where God uses the weak and the humble to accomplish His purposes, emphasizing reliance on divine strength rather than human might.

Symbolic Interpretation:

The oxgoad can also be seen as a symbol of divine empowerment and the unexpected ways in which God can bring about deliverance. It serves as a reminder that God can use ordinary people and everyday objects to fulfill His plans. The account of Shamgar encourages believers to trust in God's ability to use their unique circumstances and resources for His glory.

In summary, the oxgoad, while a simple agricultural tool, holds significant meaning within the biblical narrative. Its mention in the account of Shamgar highlights themes of divine intervention, resourcefulness, and the unexpected means by which God can achieve His purposes through His chosen people.(n.) A goad for driving oxen.OX-GOAD

oks'-god.

See GOAD.

4451. malmad -- an oxgoad
... 4450, 4451. malmad. 4452 . an oxgoad. Transliteration: malmad Phonetic
Spelling: (mal-mawd') Short Definition: oxgoad. Word Origin ...
/hebrew/4451.htm - 6k

The Judges.
... (2) The enemy each judge had to combat. (3) What each judge accomplished
against the enemy and what weapon he used-an oxgoad or what? ...
/.../tidwell/the bible period by period/chapter ix the judges.htm

Oxgoad (1 Occurrence)
... (n.) A goad for driving oxen. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. OX-GOAD.
oks'-god. See GOAD. Multi-Version Concordance Oxgoad (1 Occurrence). ...
/o/oxgoad.htm - 6k

Shamgar (2 Occurrences)
... Shamgar's improvised weapon with which he helped to "save Israel" is spoken of
as an oxgoad. With this he smote of the Philistines 600 men. ...
/s/shamgar.htm - 9k

Ox-goad (2 Occurrences)
Ox-goad. Oxgoad, Ox-goad. Ox-stick . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia OX-GOAD.
oks'-god. ... (See JPS ASV WBS YLT). Oxgoad, Ox-goad. Ox-stick . Reference Bible
/o/ox-goad.htm - 7k

Goad (2 Occurrences)
... Judges 3:31 After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck of the Philistines
six hundred men with an oxgoad: and he also saved Israel. ...
/g/goad.htm - 9k

Anath (4 Occurrences)
... Judges 3:31 After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck of the Philistines
six hundred men with an oxgoad: and he also saved Israel. ...
/a/anath.htm - 8k

Oxen (176 Occurrences)

/o/oxen.htm - 38k

Six (198 Occurrences)
... Judges 3:31 After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck of the Philistines
six hundred men with an oxgoad: and he also saved Israel. ...
/s/six.htm - 38k

Philistines (224 Occurrences)
... Judges 3:31 After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck of the Philistines
six hundred men with an oxgoad: and he also saved Israel. ...
/p/philistines.htm - 75k

What is an ox goad / oxgoad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Shamgar? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about Judges | GotQuestions.org

Oxgoad: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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