“But Ehud made him a dagger which had two edges, of a cubit length; and he did gird it under his raiment upon his right thigh.”
Historical Context:The book of Judges records the period after Joshua’s death, when Israel was governed by a series of judges whom God raised up to deliver the people from their enemies. Ehud was one of the judges who played a significant role in the history of Israel.
Background of the Passage:The verse focuses on Ehud, who was an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin. The Israelites had fallen into idolatry and were oppressed by Eglon, the king of Moab, for eighteen years. God raised up Ehud as a deliverer to free the Israelites from Moab’s oppression.
Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons:
- The Dagger:Ehud crafted a dagger with two edges, which was an unusual weapon. This dagger symbolises Ehud’s role as God’s instrument of deliverance. It reminds us that God uses unexpected means and people to accomplish His purposes. Sometimes, God works through those who are seemingly weak or insignificant in the eyes of the world.
- Girded under his raiment upon his right thigh:Ehud concealed the dagger on his right thigh, under his clothing. This act of concealment represents the secrecy and subtlety of Ehud’s plan. It also highlights the importance of wisdom and strategy in carrying out God’s plans. Ehud’s hidden dagger reminds us that God’s deliverance often comes unexpectedly and in ways that human wisdom cannot fathom.
Application and Lessons:
- Obedience to God:Ehud was a man who followed God’s leading and was obedient to His instructions. As believers, we are called to listen and respond to God’s guidance in our lives. God can use our obedience to bring about His plans and purposes.
- God’s Deliverance:Ehud’s story reminds us that God is the ultimate deliverer. He can use ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. When we face challenges or oppression in our lives, we can trust in God’s faithfulness to deliver us. Just as Ehud’s dagger was a means of liberation for Israel, God has various ways to bring freedom and victory into our lives.
- God’s Unconventional Methods:Ehud’s choice of a hidden dagger demonstrates that God’s ways are not always predictable or conventional. We should be open to God’s leading, even if it means stepping out of our comfort zones or embracing unconventional methods to accomplish His purposes.
- Trust in God’s Sovereignty:Despite the odds stacked against him, Ehud trusted in God’s sovereignty. Likewise, we should trust in God’s power and faithfulness, knowing that He is in control of every situation we face. Our faith in God’s sovereignty strengthens us to face challenges with courage and confidence.
In summary, Judges 3:16 teaches us about Ehud’s role as God’s chosen deliverer, his obedience to God, and the unconventional means God used to bring about Israel’s deliverance. It encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty, to be open to His leading, and to rely on Him for our deliverance in times of difficulty.
