Judges 3:30

So Moab was subdued under the hand of Israel that day, and the land had rest for eighty years.

Study Bible

So Moab was subdued
The phrase "Moab was subdued" indicates a significant turning point in the history of Israel's relationship with Moab. The Hebrew root for "subdued" is "כָּנַע" (kana), which means to bring into subjection or to humble. This subjugation was not merely a military victory but a divine act of deliverance orchestrated by God through the judge Ehud. Historically, Moab was a perennial adversary of Israel, often leading them into idolatry and oppression. The subduing of Moab signifies God's faithfulness in delivering His people from their enemies when they repent and turn back to Him.

under the hand of Israel
The phrase "under the hand of Israel" suggests dominion and control. The "hand" in Hebrew, "יָד" (yad), often symbolizes power and authority. This victory was not just a physical conquest but a spiritual triumph, demonstrating that Israel, when obedient to God, could exercise authority over their oppressors. It reflects the biblical theme that God empowers His people to overcome their adversaries when they rely on His strength rather than their own.

and the land had rest
The "land had rest" is a recurring theme in the Book of Judges, indicating a period of peace and stability following turmoil and conflict. The Hebrew word for "rest" is "שָׁקַט" (shakat), meaning to be quiet or undisturbed. This rest is a gift from God, a time for the nation to recover, rebuild, and refocus on their covenant relationship with Him. It serves as a reminder of the peace that comes from living in accordance with God's will.

for eighty years
The duration "eighty years" is significant, as it represents one of the longest periods of peace recorded in the Book of Judges. This extended time of rest underscores the completeness of the victory and the effectiveness of Ehud's leadership. In biblical numerology, the number eighty can symbolize a new beginning or a period of renewal. This long span of peace allowed Israel to experience a generational shift, where the lessons of faithfulness and reliance on God could be passed down and ingrained in the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moab
A nation descended from Lot, often in conflict with Israel. In this context, Moab was an oppressor of Israel until subdued.

2. Israel
The chosen people of God, who were under Moabite oppression due to their disobedience but were delivered through God's intervention.

3. Ehud
The judge who delivered Israel from Moabite oppression, leading to the subjugation of Moab.

4. Eglon
The king of Moab who oppressed Israel before being killed by Ehud.

5. Eighty Years of Rest
A period of peace and stability for Israel following their deliverance from Moabite oppression.

Teaching Points

God's Deliverance
God is faithful to deliver His people when they repent and turn back to Him, as seen in the subjugation of Moab.

Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's oppression by Moab was a direct result of their disobedience, reminding us of the importance of following God's commands.

The Role of Judges
Judges like Ehud were raised by God to lead and deliver Israel, showing that God uses individuals to accomplish His purposes.

Peace and Rest
The eighty years of rest highlight the peace that comes from living in alignment with God's will.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel had physical enemies, Christians face spiritual battles, and victory comes through reliance on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the subjugation of Moab illustrate the consequences of Israel's disobedience and the mercy of God?

2. In what ways can we see the role of Ehud as a judge reflecting God's use of individuals to bring about His purposes today?

3. What parallels can be drawn between the physical rest Israel experienced and the spiritual rest promised to believers in Hebrews 4?

4. How can the cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance in Judges inform our understanding of personal spiritual growth?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are living in obedience to God to experience His peace and rest in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
Discusses blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which is relevant to Israel's cycle of sin and deliverance.

Psalm 46:9
Speaks of God making wars cease, paralleling the peace Israel experienced after Moab's subjugation.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Talks about entering God's rest, which can be seen as a spiritual parallel to the physical rest Israel experienced.