Background and Context:
Ehud, the son of Gera, a Benjamite, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 3:12-30. During this period, Israel was under the oppression of Eglon, the king of Moab, as a consequence of their disobedience to God. The Israelites had done evil in the sight of the LORD, and as a result, God allowed Eglon to gain power over them. The Moabites, along with the Ammonites and Amalekites, captured the City of Palms, which is identified as Jericho, and subjected Israel to eighteen years of servitude.

Ehud's Role as a Deliverer:
Ehud is raised by God as a deliverer for the Israelites. He is described as a left-handed man, which plays a crucial role in his mission. The Israelites send Ehud to deliver tribute to Eglon, and he uses this opportunity to execute a daring plan to free his people from Moabite domination.

The Assassination of Eglon:
Ehud crafts a double-edged sword about a cubit long and straps it to his right thigh under his clothing. After presenting the tribute, Ehud tells Eglon that he has a secret message for him. Eglon, intrigued, dismisses his attendants, allowing Ehud a private audience. In Judges 3:21-22 , it is recorded: "And Ehud reached with his left hand, took the sword from his right thigh, and plunged it into Eglon’s belly. Even the handle sank in after the blade, and Eglon’s fat closed over it, so Ehud did not withdraw the sword. And the dung came out."

Escape and Rallying Israel:
After assassinating Eglon, Ehud locks the doors of the upper room and escapes through the porch. He passes by the idols near Gilgal and reaches Seirah, where he sounds the trumpet in the hill country of Ephraim. Ehud rallies the Israelites, declaring that the LORD has given Moab into their hands. The Israelites follow him down to the fords of the Jordan, cutting off the Moabites' escape and killing about ten thousand of their warriors, described as "all vigorous and strong; not a single man escaped" (Judges 3:29).

Significance and Aftermath:
Ehud's deliverance of Israel is significant as it demonstrates God's mercy and faithfulness in raising leaders to rescue His people despite their repeated disobedience. Ehud's cunning and bravery, coupled with divine intervention, lead to eighty years of peace for Israel. This narrative highlights the theme of God using unexpected means and individuals to accomplish His purposes, as well as the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God.

Theological Implications:
Ehud's account underscores the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and individuals. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and reliance on God for deliverance. The account also illustrates the biblical principle that God often chooses the unlikely and the humble to achieve His divine plans, emphasizing that deliverance and victory come from the LORD.