The Servants of Eglon are mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in the narrative concerning Ehud, the judge of Israel, and Eglon, the king of Moab. This account is found in Judges 3:12-30, where the Israelites, having done evil in the sight of the LORD, were delivered into the hands of Eglon, king of Moab, for eighteen years. Eglon, with the help of the Ammonites and Amalekites, had defeated Israel and taken possession of the City of Palms, which is identified as Jericho.

Role and Function

The servants of Eglon played a crucial role in the events leading to the liberation of Israel from Moabite oppression. They are depicted as attendants to King Eglon, responsible for his personal security and service. Their presence is most notably highlighted during the assassination of Eglon by Ehud, the left-handed Benjamite whom God raised as a deliverer for Israel.

Biblical Account

In Judges 3:20-25, Ehud, having crafted a double-edged sword and concealed it under his clothing, approached Eglon under the pretense of delivering a secret message from God. Eglon, described as a very fat man, dismissed his attendants to hear the message in private. Ehud then took the opportunity to assassinate Eglon, thrusting the sword into his belly. The text notes that the servants, after Ehud's departure, returned to find the doors of the upper room locked. Assuming the king was relieving himself, they delayed entering, which allowed Ehud to escape.

Significance

The servants' actions, or lack thereof, inadvertently facilitated Ehud's successful escape and subsequent rallying of the Israelites against the Moabites. Their delay in checking on Eglon provided Ehud with the necessary time to flee and mobilize the Israelite forces. This event led to a significant victory for Israel, as they struck down about ten thousand Moabite men, described as strong and able-bodied, and secured peace for the land for eighty years (Judges 3:29-30).

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, royal servants were often eunuchs or trusted officials who managed the king's personal affairs and security. Their failure to promptly investigate the situation with Eglon reflects a possible cultural norm of respecting the king's privacy, even to the point of negligence. This incident underscores the vulnerability of even the most powerful rulers when divine intervention is at play.

Theological Implications

The narrative of the servants of Eglon highlights the sovereignty of God in delivering His people through unexpected means. It demonstrates how God can use the actions and inactions of individuals to fulfill His purposes. The account of Ehud and Eglon serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, even when they have strayed from His commandments. The servants' unwitting role in the liberation of Israel illustrates the broader biblical theme of God's providence and the ultimate triumph of His will.