Judges 3:19

But upon reaching the idols near Gilgal, he himself turned back and said, "I have a secret message for you, O king." "Silence," said the king, and all his attendants left him.

Study Bible

But he himself turned back
This phrase indicates a deliberate and intentional action by Ehud, the judge of Israel. The Hebrew root for "turned back" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which often implies repentance or a change of direction. In this context, it signifies Ehud's strategic decision to return to the king after initially leaving, highlighting his cunning and bravery. This action sets the stage for the deliverance of Israel from Moabite oppression, demonstrating God's providence and the importance of obedience and courage in fulfilling divine missions.

from the idols near Gilgal
The mention of "idols" near Gilgal is significant. Gilgal was a place of historical and spiritual importance for Israel, being the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 4:19-20). The presence of idols here suggests a spiritual decline and the infiltration of pagan practices among the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "idols" is "פְּסִילִים" (pesilim), which refers to carved images or statues. This highlights the constant struggle of Israel to remain faithful to Yahweh amidst surrounding pagan influences. Ehud's turning back from this place symbolizes a rejection of idolatry and a return to God's purposes.

and said, 'I have a secret message for you, O king.'
Ehud's declaration of a "secret message" is a clever ruse. The Hebrew word for "secret" is "סֵתֶר" (seter), which can mean hidden or concealed. This phrase underscores the theme of divine wisdom and strategy in the narrative. Ehud's approach is not just a physical act of deliverance but also a spiritual message that God can use unexpected means and people to accomplish His will. The use of secrecy here is a reminder of the wisdom and discernment needed in spiritual warfare.

The king said, 'Silence!'
The king's command for silence, "הַס" (has), indicates his curiosity and desire to hear the message without interruption. This moment of silence is pregnant with anticipation and tension. It reflects the king's vulnerability and the impending judgment upon him. In a broader sense, it symbolizes the silencing of evil and the triumph of God's justice. The king's authority is momentarily unquestioned, yet it is about to be subverted by God's chosen deliverer.

And all his attendants left him
The departure of the attendants signifies a moment of isolation for the king, making him susceptible to Ehud's plan. This detail emphasizes the theme of divine orchestration, where God arranges circumstances to fulfill His purposes. The Hebrew word for "attendants" is "מְשָׁרְתִים" (mesharetim), meaning servants or ministers. Their absence highlights the vulnerability of human power when it stands against God's sovereign will. This scene serves as a reminder that earthly power is fleeting and that true security is found in obedience to God.

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 oppressed Israel for eighteen years. He is the recipient of Ehud's secret message.

3. Gilgal
A location near the Jordan River, significant in Israel's history as a place of encampment and worship, but here noted for its idols.

4. Idols
Representing the false gods and pagan practices that Israel was warned against but often fell into.

5. Secret Message
A ruse used by Ehud to gain private access to King Eglon, leading to Eglon's assassination.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is a recurring issue for Israel, symbolizing a departure from God. Believers today must guard against modern forms of idolatry, such as materialism or self-worship.

God's Deliverance through Unlikely Means
Ehud, a left-handed man, was an unexpected deliverer. God often uses unexpected people and methods to accomplish His purposes, reminding us to remain open to His leading.

Courage and Obedience
Ehud's boldness in approaching King Eglon demonstrates the courage required to follow God's call. Believers are encouraged to act with courage and obedience in their own lives.

The Importance of Secrecy and Strategy in God's Work
Ehud's strategic approach to Eglon shows that wisdom and planning are vital in fulfilling God's missions. Christians should seek God's guidance in planning and executing His work.

Repentance and Turning Away from Sin
Ehud's turning back from the idols symbolizes repentance. Believers are called to turn away from sin and return to God wholeheartedly.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Ehud's turning back from the idols at Gilgal teach us about the importance of repentance in our spiritual journey?

2. How can we identify and address modern forms of idolatry in our lives today?

3. In what ways does God use unexpected people or circumstances in your life to accomplish His purposes?

4. How can we cultivate the courage and obedience demonstrated by Ehud in our own walk with God?

5. What strategies can we employ to ensure that our actions align with God's will, as seen in Ehud's approach to King Eglon?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12:2-3
This passage commands the Israelites to destroy all places of idol worship, highlighting the significance of Ehud turning back from the idols at Gilgal.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's rebuke of Saul for disobedience and idolatry connects to the theme of Israel's struggle with idol worship.

Psalm 115:4-8
This psalm describes the futility of idols, reinforcing the spiritual backdrop of Ehud's mission.

Acts 17:16
Paul's distress over the idols in Athens parallels the spiritual conflict in Israel during the time of the Judges.