Judges 3:17

and brought the tribute to Eglon king of Moab, who was an obese man.

Study Bible

and he brought the tribute
The act of bringing tribute in ancient times was a common practice, often symbolizing submission or allegiance to a more powerful ruler. The Hebrew word for "tribute" here is "מִנְחָה" (minchah), which can also mean offering or gift. This reflects the Israelites' subjugation under Moabite rule, a consequence of their disobedience to God. The tribute was likely agricultural produce or precious metals, indicating the economic burden placed upon Israel. This act of bringing tribute sets the stage for Ehud's cunning plan, highlighting the tension between Israel's oppression and their yearning for deliverance.

to Eglon king of Moab
Eglon, the Moabite king, represents the oppressive foreign powers that God allowed to dominate Israel due to their idolatry and sin. Moab, located east of the Dead Sea, was historically an enemy of Israel. The name "Eglon" is thought to be derived from the Hebrew word "עֶגְלוֹן" (Eglon), meaning "calf-like," which may allude to his corpulence or possibly his perceived strength and dominance. This encounter with Eglon is pivotal, as it sets the stage for God's deliverance through Ehud, reminding us that God can use unexpected means and people to fulfill His purposes.

who was an obese man
The description of Eglon as "an obese man" is not merely a physical observation but carries deeper implications. The Hebrew word used here is "בָּרִיא" (bari), meaning fat or well-fed, which in ancient Near Eastern culture could symbolize wealth, indulgence, and complacency. Eglon's obesity may also serve as a metaphor for the excess and corruption of his reign. This detail foreshadows the vulnerability and eventual downfall of Eglon, as God uses Ehud, an unlikely hero, to deliver Israel. It serves as a reminder of the biblical theme that human strength and power are ultimately futile against God's sovereign will.

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. Eglon
The king of Moab, who had oppressed Israel for eighteen years. He is described as an extremely fat man, which may symbolize his indulgence and the prosperity of Moab at Israel's expense.

3. Moab
A nation located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. Moab's oppression of Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

4. Tribute
A form of payment or offering made by a subjugated people to their conqueror. In this context, it represents Israel's subjugation to Moab.

5. Israel
The nation chosen by God, often falling into cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance throughout the Book of Judges.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's subjugation under Eglon is a direct result of their disobedience to God. This serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience in our own lives.

God's Deliverance
Despite Israel's repeated failures, God raises up Ehud to deliver them. This highlights God's mercy and willingness to rescue His people when they repent.

The Danger of Indulgence
Eglon's physical description as "an extremely fat man" can symbolize the dangers of indulgence and self-gratification, which can lead to spiritual and moral decay.

God Uses Unlikely Heroes
Ehud, a left-handed man in a right-handed world, was chosen by God to deliver Israel. This teaches us that God can use anyone, regardless of perceived weaknesses or societal norms, to accomplish His purposes.

The Importance of Repentance
Israel's cycle of sin and deliverance underscores the necessity of genuine repentance and turning back to God for restoration and peace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Eglon as "an extremely fat man" reflect the spiritual state of Moab and its king? What lessons can we learn about the dangers of indulgence?

2. In what ways does Ehud's left-handedness serve as a reminder that God can use our perceived weaknesses for His glory? Can you think of other biblical examples where God used unlikely individuals?

3. How does the cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance in Judges 3 relate to the broader account of Israel's history? How can this cycle be seen in our own spiritual lives?

4. What are some modern-day "tributes" or compromises that Christians might be tempted to offer to the world, and how can we resist these pressures?

5. How does the account of Ehud and Eglon encourage us to trust in God's deliverance, even when circumstances seem dire? How can we apply this trust in our daily challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
Discusses the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which contextualizes Israel's subjugation under Moab as a consequence of their disobedience to God.

1 Samuel 2:29-30
Eli's sons' indulgence and the resulting judgment from God parallel Eglon's indulgence and eventual downfall.

Psalm 106:34-43
Describes Israel's repeated cycle of sin and deliverance, providing a broader context for the events in Judges.

Romans 6:16
Discusses being slaves to sin or righteousness, which can be related to Israel's subjugation under Moab due to their disobedience.