Introduction

Shamgar is one of the lesser-known judges in the Book of Judges, yet his brief mention in the biblical narrative highlights his significant role in delivering Israel from its oppressors. As an extraordinary judge, Shamgar's account is encapsulated in a single verse, yet it speaks volumes about his courage and the divine empowerment that characterized the judges of Israel.

Biblical Account

Shamgar is mentioned in Judges 3:31, which states: "After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad. He too saved Israel" . This verse succinctly captures the essence of Shamgar's judgeship, emphasizing his role as a deliverer of Israel through an extraordinary feat of strength and bravery.

Historical and Cultural Context

Shamgar's time as a judge likely occurred during a period of Philistine oppression, a common theme in the Book of Judges. The Philistines were a formidable enemy, known for their military prowess and advanced weaponry. Shamgar's use of an oxgoad—a farming implement typically used to drive oxen—underscores the resourcefulness and divine empowerment that enabled him to achieve victory against overwhelming odds.

Name and Lineage

The name "Shamgar" is of uncertain origin, and little is known about his lineage beyond the mention of his father, Anath. The reference to "son of Anath" has led some scholars to speculate about a possible connection to a Canaanite deity named Anath, though this remains speculative. In the biblical narrative, the focus is on Shamgar's actions rather than his ancestry, highlighting the theme of God raising up unlikely heroes to deliver His people.

Role as a Judge

Shamgar's role as a judge is characterized by his singular act of deliverance. Unlike other judges who are given extensive narratives detailing their leadership and battles, Shamgar's judgeship is encapsulated in his remarkable victory over the Philistines. This brevity serves to emphasize the miraculous nature of his achievement and the divine intervention that enabled it.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Shamgar's account illustrates the recurring theme of God's deliverance through unexpected means. His use of an oxgoad, a simple and unconventional weapon, highlights the biblical motif of God using the weak and humble to confound the mighty. Shamgar's victory serves as a testament to the power of faith and the importance of relying on God's strength rather than human might.

Legacy

Though Shamgar's account is brief, his legacy endures as a symbol of courage and divine empowerment. His inclusion in the Book of Judges serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to deliver His people, even through the most unlikely of instruments. Shamgar's extraordinary act of valor continues to inspire believers to trust in God's provision and to act boldly in the face of adversity.Judges 3:31
And after him was Shamgar the son of Anath, which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox goad: and he also delivered Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Historical Books.
... by God and endowed by him with extraordinary qualifications for ... of Jehovah; the book
of Judges describes the ... in three parallel columns, first the names of the ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... generations to whom Moses or Joshua were merely names. ... These judges were not magistrates
invested with official ... a name behind them, such as Shamgar, Ibzan, Tola ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

Summary of the Book of Judges - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org

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