Judges 3:20

Then Ehud approached him while he was sitting alone in the coolness of his upper room. "I have a word from God for you," Ehud said, and the king rose from his seat.

Study Bible

Then Ehud approached him
Ehud, the left-handed judge of Israel, is a central figure in this narrative. His approach signifies a bold and divinely orchestrated mission. The Hebrew root for "approached" (נָגַשׁ, nagash) often implies drawing near with purpose or intent, suggesting Ehud's courage and determination. This moment is pivotal, as it marks the transition from oppression to deliverance for Israel. Ehud's approach is not just physical but also spiritual, as he is on a mission ordained by God.

while he was sitting alone
The phrase "sitting alone" indicates a moment of vulnerability for King Eglon. In ancient Near Eastern culture, privacy was a rare luxury for a king, suggesting that Ehud's plan was meticulously crafted. The Hebrew word for "alone" (בָּדָד, badad) can also imply isolation, which in this context, underscores the king's unawareness of the impending judgment. This setting is crucial for Ehud's success, as it allows him to confront the king without interference.

in the cool upper room
The "cool upper room" refers to a private chamber, likely on the roof of the palace, designed to provide relief from the heat. Archaeological findings suggest that such rooms were common in ancient palaces, serving as places of rest and retreat. The Hebrew term for "cool" (מְקֵרָה, mekerah) implies a refreshing environment, which contrasts with the impending act of judgment. This setting highlights the deceptive peace before the storm of divine justice.

and said, 'I have a message from God for you.'
Ehud's declaration, "I have a message from God," is both a literal and prophetic statement. The Hebrew word for "message" (דָּבָר, dabar) can mean word, matter, or thing, emphasizing the weight and authority of what is to follow. Ehud's words are a divine pronouncement, reflecting the biblical theme that God communicates His will through chosen individuals. This moment underscores the sovereignty of God in delivering His people and executing justice.

As the king rose from his seat
The king's action of rising signifies respect and anticipation for a divine message. In the ancient world, standing was a sign of reverence, especially when receiving a word from a deity. The Hebrew root for "rose" (קוּם, qum) often implies rising to action or attention, which in this context, foreshadows the king's imminent downfall. This act of rising is ironically the king's last, as it leads to his demise, illustrating the sudden and inescapable nature of divine judgment.

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 message.

3. Upper Room
A private chamber where King Eglon was sitting alone, signifying a place of vulnerability and intimacy.

4. Moab
A nation that oppressed Israel, representing the enemies of God's people.

5. Message from God
The divine mission Ehud claims to have, which is both a literal and symbolic message of deliverance for Israel.

Teaching Points

God Uses Unlikely People
Ehud's left-handedness was considered a disadvantage, yet God used it for His purpose. We should not underestimate how God can use our perceived weaknesses.

Divine Appointments
Ehud's encounter with Eglon was orchestrated by God. We should be attentive to the divine appointments in our lives where God calls us to act.

Courage in Obedience
Ehud's boldness in delivering God's message to Eglon teaches us the importance of courageously following God's commands, even when it involves risk.

The Power of God's Message
The message Ehud delivered was transformative and led to Israel's deliverance. We should recognize the power of God's Word to change situations and lives.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The account of Ehud and Eglon reminds us of God's sovereignty in delivering His people. We can trust in His timing and methods.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ehud's left-handedness play a role in God's plan, and what does this teach us about our own perceived weaknesses?

2. In what ways can we identify and respond to divine appointments in our daily lives?

3. How does Ehud's courage in delivering God's message inspire us to be bold in our faith?

4. What are some situations in your life where you need to trust in God's sovereignty for deliverance?

5. How can we ensure that we are attentive and obedient to the messages God wants us to deliver to others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:10
Just as God called Moses to deliver Israel from Egypt, He called Ehud to deliver Israel from Moab. Both were unlikely leaders chosen by God.

1 Samuel 3:10
Samuel receives a message from God, similar to Ehud's claim of having a divine message, emphasizing the importance of being a messenger of God's will.

2 Corinthians 12:9
Ehud's left-handedness, often seen as a weakness, is used by God to accomplish His purpose, paralleling how God's power is made perfect in weakness.