Juízes 3

Juízes 3

Morgan - The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel. Othniel was the first of the judges. The circumstances which made his appoint­ment necessary were those of the oppression of the people of God by the king of Meso­potamia. For eight years they had been subject to him. That subjection was due to their sin. They "forgat Jehovah their God, and served the Baalim and the Asheroth." The method of the statement suggests a gradual deterioration, ending in complete degeneracy. The stern discipline of the eight years brought them back to remembrance of God, and they cried unto Him. Then He raised up Othniel, who was to them a saviour, judging them, and leading them to victory over their enemies. The words we have emphasized are those which reveal his equipment for this work. Here the phrase, "The Spirit of Jehovah," occurs for the first time in the Bible story. We have read before. of "the Spirit of God"; we have heard Moses say: "Would that Jehovah would put His Spirit upon them." But now it is said that "The Spirit of Jehovah came upon" this man. There is no doubt that the reference is to the Holy Spirit; but the suggestion is not so much that of the might of God, as in the phrase "the Spirit of God" or Elohim, as of the grace and condescension of God. It was "the Spirit of Jehovah," that is, of the One Who was ever pledged to the need of His people, and Who became to them exactly what they needed in order to rescue them. This Spirit came upon a man, whose relationship to Caleb at least sug­gests that he was a man loyal to God amidst the prevalent declension of the people. By that enduement of love and power, he was perfectly equipped for his work. (Life Applications from Every Chapter of the Bible can borrow for 1 hour) Judged (08199)(shaphat) is a verb that means to judge or govern. While it frequently translated judge, this is somewhat misleading as shaphat is not typical of the modern concept of judge (as in a court of law), but is much more inclusive -- to function as ruler or governor - individuals (Jdg. 16:31; 1 Sa 7:16), king (1 Ki. 3:9); even God Himself (Ps. 50:6; 75:7) because He is the source of authority and will eventually conduct all judgments (Ps. 96:13). In a judicial sense shaphat could refer to the arbitration of civil, domestic, and religious disputes (Dt. 25:1), fulfilled by the congregation (Nu 35:24), by individual judges (Ex 18:16; Dt. 1:16), by the king (1 Sa 8:5, 6, 20) or by God Himself (Ge 16:5; 1 Sa 24:12, 15). Judges 3:11 Then the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died. Jdg 3:30; 5:31; 8:28; Joshua 11:23; Esther 9:22 Related Passages: Joshua 11:23 So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD had spoken to Moses, and Joshua gave it for an inheritance to Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. Thus the land had rest (saqat) from war. Joshua 14:15 Now the name of Hebron was formerly Kiriath-arba; for Arba was the greatest man among the Anakim. Then the land had rest (saqat) from war. Judges 3:30 So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land was undisturbed (saqat; Lxx - hesuchazo - live a quiet life) for eighty years. THE JUDGE "DELIVERS" AND THE LAND RESTS Then - The word then is always a "time sensitive" word meaning next in time, at that time and generally marks progression in a narrative. Observing "then" can be very helpful in eschatological passages to follow the flow. the land had rest (saqat; Lxx - hesuchazo - live a quiet life) forty years.: The statement "the land had rest (or "undisturbed)" concludes each of the first four cycles of Judges (Jdg 3:11, Jdg 3:30+; Jdg 5:31+; Jdg 8:28+) and all 4 are Hebrew saqat and all rendered in the Lxx with hesuchazo (live a quiet life). The Hebrew verb saqat also conveys a sense of safety and security. Security can paradoxically be a time of potential vulnerability, for we all tend to "let our guard down" (pray less, commune less with God, etc) when the "pressure" is off. Israel fell into this "trap" (and I have as well). This period of "rest" should have been appreciated and acknowledged by Israel as the "kindness" of the Lord and they should have responded with genuine repentance. As Paul rhetorically asks his reader (Romans 2 speaking especially to Jewish readers)… Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? (Ro 2:4+) Davis adds that "This rest is an opportunity that can be enjoyed only in ongoing fidelity to Yahweh. Israel cannot merely piddle with it, for it will not always be extended. As Carl Armerding has observed: "The first five judges, all of whom, including the mysterious Shamgar, were deliverer–figures, represent a time when the land periodically enjoyed rest from conflict…. (Jdg 3:11, 30, 5:31+, Jdg 8:28+) In contrast, the latter period is characterized by minor judges … together with the rather unorthodox deliverers Jephthah and Samson. The land is never said to “have rest” and the picture is one of increasing moral, political and military decline leading to the shameful climax of events in the Epilogue (Judges 17–21). The lesson is clear: a people which fails to give wholehearted obedience to the LORD can only sink lower and lower." The rest that God gives must be met by the constancy of his people. A footnote. Let us not as Christians be too hasty to spiritualize this rest into heavenly rest. It was the land that enjoyed rest. Even Christians, I would hold, should keep to the earthiness of the text here. There is no need to fly off to heaven at this point. Does not the apostle command us to pray "for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." (1Ti 2:2+)? To have rulers in one’s country who can maintain social and civil order is one of God’s wonderful gifts to his flock. And if your land has relative rest, you should thank the kind King who has granted it to you. (Judges: Such a Great Salvation - Focus on the Bible) THOUGHT- Have you entered His REST or are still striving in your strength? (cf how Paul labored and strived in Col 1:29+). Are you experiencing His rest today? If not, could it be that have been like Israel and not remained faithful? See Rest in the Bible. When did Israel have rest? When the ''judge'' (the "savior") was there! (cp Judges 2:19+) For 40 years. Here's the cycle: you see, you covet, you want it like the commercial ''your way'' so God says ''Okay, I'll give it to you.'' And so we become a slave to that old taskmaster, the flesh which is being corrupted by its lusts (2Pe 1:4+, cp 1Jn 2:16+, Ro 13:14+, 1Pe 2:11+) of the flesh. The flesh is not getting any better folks. When you realize you can't escape the snare/bondage of whatever it was you thought you wanted, you cry out for the Deliverer and He hears and He delivers you from the wrath to come. Amen. And then when He is ruling (AND ONLY THEN) can I have the peace that passes all human understanding (Php 4:6+). Many have failed to enter that rest by faith (which equates with obedience in this passage in Hebrews 3), failing to surrender to the rule (cf Lordship) of ''Judge'' Who Alone gives true rest to our souls (see Matthew passage below). And to whom did He swear that they should not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? 19 And so we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief. (Hebrews 3:18, 19+) Listen to the Judge/Savior's words that are still valid two millennia later... “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. (anapauo) 29 “Take (aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) My yoke upon you and learn (aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey)from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST (anapausis) FOR YOUR SOULS. 30 “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Mt 11:28-30+). And Othniel the son of Kenaz died: This is almost like an "Oh, by the way" type statement, but in truth it is a crucial fact. It is like the curtain goes down on Othniel's life and 40 years of rest and without a pause the "audience" leaves the theater and immediately begins their pursuit of fleshly pleasure! Let's P-A-R-T-Y! Woe! It is evidence such as this which leads me to believe Israel had never truly repented. O yes, they had experienced remorse and they had practiced a measure of reform. But where is the record of their return to the practice of the annual Passover and other designated feasts, all given to continually remind them of the greatness and goodness of their God. In fact there is no mention of Israel celebrating the Passover during the 300+ years of the book of Judges! Rest (08252)(saqat) means to be still, quiet or undisturbed and describes a state of tranquility, as during the absence of war. It indicates that equilibrium was restored to the land after a period of oppression. The expression disappears after the time of Gideon, for it appears that Abimelech's reign of terror marked a turning point in the era, as turmoil replaced peace. Gilbrant - The basic idea of shāqat is "to be tranquil." It suggests the absence of strife and war, but it also suggests the absence of worry and anxiety. The meaning "to be at rest from war" is most pronounced in Joshua (Josh. 11:23; 14:15), Judges (Judg. 3:11; 5:31) and 1 and 2 Chronicles (1 Chr. 4:40; 2 Chr. 14:1, 6; 23:21). An obedient people "enjoyed peace" as a result of God's blessings. At times, they experienced his judgment for their sin. Shāqat is used in the sense of "being peaceful" or "being quiet." The people of Moab had been "undisturbed" for a long time like wine on its dregs (Jer. 48:11), but God would judge them. Even the nations that had troubled Israel were "untroubled" (Zech. 1:11), yet God would bring judgment upon them. However, Israel would be brought back to the land where God would cause the people "to [live in] peace" (Jer. 30:10; 46:27), and the whole earth would be at peace when Babylon had fallen (Isa. 14:7). Shāqat is also used of a sick person who cannot get rest (Job 3:26) and of a dead person who has been laid to rest (v. 13). The Qal participle denotes "peaceful ones" (Jdg. 18:7, 27). Shāqat also means "to be quiet" or "to maintain a quiet attitude" (Ruth 3:18; Isa. 18:4). The Lord said that He could not keep quiet while Jerusalem was afflicted (62:1), nor could the sword of the Lord rest until it had finished its mission of judgment (Jer. 47:6f). The psalmist pled with the Lord not to rest as long as his enemies were threatening his people (Ps. 83:1), but God said that when his judgment was finished He would be quiet or pacified and no longer angry (Ezek. 16:42). In the Hiphil stem, shāqat means "to give peace" or "to keep the peace." It denotes relief from adversity (Ps. 94:13) and pacification of anger (Prov. 15:18). It also refers to maintaining quietness (Isa. 32:17), lying in peace (Job 37:17) and keeping oneself quiet (34:29; Isa. 7:4; 30:15). Isaiah 57:20 says, "The wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest" (cf. Jer. 49:23). Finally, shāqat speaks of "careless ease" or "carefree peace" (Ezek. 16:49). (Complete Biblical Library - Incredible Resource) Herman Austel - shāqaṭ occurs forty-one times, in the Qal and Hiphil. Some of the words with which it is associated or whose meanings it sometimes overlaps are 1) beṭaḥ "security," "a feeling of confidence"; 2) nûah "settle down," "rest"; 3) ḥārash "be silent," "be inactive"; 4) dāmâ "be silent"; 5) dāmam "be motionless, physically quiet"; 6) shaʾănān "ease," "undisturbed, without anxiety" and 7) shābat "cease, rest from activity." The basic idea of the root is "tranquility." It implies the absence of strife, war, or trouble on the one hand, and worry or anxiety on the other. It may also imply the absence of a pressing obligation, or again, of some disturbing element that mars a relationship between individuals. The meaning "rest from war" is found particularly in Joshua, Judges, and Chronicles. Thus Joshua 11:23 says, "The land had rest from war," that is, Joshua's portion of the task was now complete. Judges shows a pattern of peace, then apostasy, oppression, deliverance, followed once again by peace and rest from war and oppression. This state of peace and tranquillity is clearly seen to be dependent on, and a direct result of, God's blessing on an obedient people. Both Asa and Jehoshaphat were godly kings whose kingdoms were blessed by God with lengthy periods of quiet (2 Chron. 14:1, 5-6 and 2 Chron. 20:30). Moab in Jeremiah 48:11 is depicted as having for a long time been untroubled (shāqaṭ), like wine sitting too long on the lees. Now God will pour it out, i.e. judge the nation. Similarly in Zech. 1:11 the nations that have troubled Israel are themselves untroubled, but God will judge them as well. On the other hand God will bring Israel back to his land and cause him to live in tranquility, with no threats or dangers to disturb him (Jeremiah 30:10; Jeremiah 46:27). Isaiah 14:7 states that the whole earth will be at rest when Babylon has fallen. But shāqaṭ is not only used when the threatening or disturbing element has been actually removed; God repeatedly challenges his people to rest in him, no matter how great the threat and danger might be. Thus he challenges Ahaz to be calm, completely at rest, despite the threat of an invasion. This sense of calm is not dependent on some sort of psychological legerdemain, but in a willingness to put his trust in a God who is far greater than all his foes. The wicked on the other hand cannot know this peace, for they are like the tossing sea which never finds rest, but is in constant turmoil (Isaiah 57:20). Another aspect of the verb is seen in Isaiah 62:1: He cannot keep quiet as long as Jerusalem is afflicted. He cannot be still until his full redemptive purpose is fulfilled. In Jeremiah 47:6-7, the sword of the Lord cannot rest until it has completed its mission of judgment; and in Psalm 83:1 [H 2] the Psalmist implores God not to rest while his enemies are raging and threatening his people. But in Ezekiel 16:42, God says that when his ministry of judgment has been completed he will be quiet, and no longer angry. And Job asks pertinently, "When he keeps quiet, who can condemn?" (Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament - borrow for 1 hour) Saqat - 41x in OT - been quiet(1), been undisturbed(1), calm(1), calmed(1), calms(1), careless(1), grant him relief(1), had rest(3), keep quiet(1), keeps quiet(1), pacified(1), peace(1), quiet(12), quietly(1), quietness(2), rest(2), still(3), undisturbed(7). Jos. 11:23; Jos. 14:15; Jdg. 3:11; Jdg. 3:30; Jdg. 5:31; Jdg. 8:28; Jdg. 18:7; Jdg. 18:27; Ruth 3:18; 2 Ki. 11:20; 1 Chr. 4:40; 2 Chr. 14:1; 2 Chr. 14:5; 2 Chr. 14:6; 2 Chr. 20:30; 2 Chr. 23:21; Job 3:13; Job 3:26; Job 34:29; Job 37:17; Ps. 76:8; Ps. 83:1; Ps. 94:13; Prov. 15:18; Isa. 7:4; Isa. 14:7; Isa. 18:4; Isa. 30:15; Isa. 32:17; Isa. 57:20; Isa. 62:1; Jer. 30:10; Jer. 46:27; Jer. 47:6; Jer. 47:7; Jer. 48:11; Jer. 49:23; Ezek. 16:42; Ezek. 16:49; Ezek. 38:11; Zech. 1:11 The Septuagint (LXX) translates "rest" in Judges 3:11 with the verb hesuchazo which Hiebert explains "basically means "to be at rest" and was used of silence after speech, rest after labor, peace after war, and the like; it was also used of tranquility or peace of mind; here it is used to urge the living of a calm, restful life." Judges 3:12 Now the sons of Israel again did evil in the sight of the LORD. So the LORD strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the LORD. again did evil - Jdg 2:19, Hos 6:4 The LORD strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel - Ex 9:16; 2Ki 5:1; Isa 10:15; 37:26; Isa 45:1, 2, 3, 4; Ezek 38:16; Da 4:22; Da 5:18; Jn 19:11 Related Passages: Judges 2:17+ Yet they did not listen to their judges, for they played the harlot after other gods and bowed themselves down to them. They turned aside quickly from the way in which their fathers had walked in obeying the commandments of the LORD; they did not do as their fathers. Judges 2:19+ But it came about when the judge died, that they would turn back and act more corruptly than their fathers, in following other gods to serve them and bow down to them; they did not abandon their practices or their stubborn ways. Hosea 6:4 What shall I do with you, O Ephraim? What shall I do with you, O Judah? For your loyalty is like a morning cloud And like the dew which goes away early. ONCE AGAIN ISRAEL PLAYS THE FOOL Now the sons of Israel again did evil in the sight of the LORD: Don't miss the emphasis of this note twice in one verse, as if the writer of the inspired text can hardly believe what he is writing! Some writers suggest Israel was repentant during the "rest period" and that is possible, but the fact that they almost immediately return to evil would indicate their hearts had not truly turned to God. THOUGHT - Do not miss the little word "again" which means once more, another time, and in the idiom "again and again" speaks of with many repetitions or often. Sadly this adverb recurs "again and again" in the book of Judges. What about your life? Does the little "fox" (that "pet sin") keep returning "again and again" to ruin your vineyards (think of the fruit of the Spirit - Gal 5:22-23+) while your vineyards are in blossom (Song 2:15+)? We must kill the little "foxes" before they destroy our entire vineyard (Ro 8:13+)! Here is the word again occurring "again and again" in Judges - Jdg 3:12, Jdg 4:1, Jdg 8:33, Jdg 10:6, Jdg 13:1, ARCHAEOLOGICAL NOTE - "When British archaeologist John Garstang excavated Jericho in 1933 he discovered a large structure that he identified as the palace of Eglon. He dubbed it the "middle Bilding," since it was sandwiched between Iron Age structures above and the destroyed Bronze Age city below. I had been erected sometime during the second half of the fourteenth century B.C., precisely the time of Eglon. " (Borrow the Archaeological Study Bible) The sons of Israel's quick return to evil (cf "quickly" in Jdg 2:17+) reminds me of the book of Revelation where Jesus is reigning in person and power in Jerusalem for 1000 years, and in spite of His glorious presence, at the end of the 1000 years the devil is released and he is able to gather unbelievers "the number of (which) is like the sand of the seashore" (Rev 20:8+)! And keep in mind that these were men and women born to believers (who had survived the Great Tribulation and entered the Kingdom) during the 1000 years who now QUICKLY give their allegiance to Satan (Rev 20:7-10+) As Jeremiah said "The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick. Who can understand it?." (Jer 17:9) One is also reminded of the young man in Proverbs 7 who encounters the "enemy" (a seductive woman) and who "Suddenly (cf "quickly" in Jdg 2:17+) follows her as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as one in fetters to the discipline of a fool, ." (Pr 7:22+) One must "kill" quickly the thought before it suddenly becomes an act! Did evil in the sight of the LORD 36 x -Jdg. 2:11; Jdg. 3:12; Jdg. 4:1; Jdg. 10:6; Jdg. 13:1; 1 Ki. 14:22; 1 Ki. 15:26; 1 Ki. 15:34; 1 Ki. 16:25; 1 Ki. 16:30; 1 Ki. 22:52; 2 Ki. 3:2; 2 Ki. 8:18; 2 Ki. 8:27; 2 Ki. 13:2; 2 Ki. 13:11; 2 Ki. 14:24; 2 Ki. 15:9; 2 Ki. 15:18; 2 Ki. 15:24; 2 Ki. 15:28; 2 Ki. 17:2; 2 Ki. 21:2; 2 Ki. 21:20; 2 Ki. 23:32; 2 Ki. 23:37; 2 Ki. 24:9; 2 Ki. 24:19; 2 Chr. 21:6; 2 Chr. 22:4; 2 Chr. 33:2; 2 Chr. 33:22; 2 Chr. 36:5; 2 Chr. 36:9; 2 Chr. 36:12; Jer. 52:2 Related Resources: Two Strategies to Win the War on Lust | Desiring God Six Steps to Defeating Sexual Sin LOOK AT THE BOOK - 6 video lessons on "ANTHEM" from John Piper This description of rapid return to evil is a repeated phrase in Judges (Jdg 2:11+, Jdg 3:12+, Jdg 4:1+, Jdg 6:1+, Jdg 10:6+, Jdg 13:1+). And in the list of Scriptures above, note that the phrase did evil is also common in 1 & 2 Kings (24 times), increasing in frequency in second Kings (implying that the level of evil was intensifying, which is the nature of sin that is not cut off quickly). It is as if the closer they got to judgment, the more evil they became or the more certain the judgment had to be. Just a thought to ponder, in view of the rapid decline in morality in America (ILLUSTRATION - A PARENT HANDED OUT CONDOMS FILLED WITH CANDY TO THE PRE-SCHOOLERS, INCLUDING MY GRANDSON EASTER WEEK 2022!)! Note it is also interesting that this phrase did evil is not found in 1 & 2 Samuel. Could it be that the reason is that the leaders were godly men like Samuel and David? Note also that the evil began with Baalim (plural) but progressed to the point documented in Judges 10:6+! A man controlled by the Spirit may change his generation for good as Othniel did, but that is not a guarantee of the spirituality of the future generation. The question that must be asked is how is it that the Israelites fell so quickly into idolatry? Did the judges such as Othniel not teach about the great and mighty deeds of God? Or was their heart so hardened that they would not receive the Word implanted which was able to save their soul? (Jas 1:21+) We get a clue from Judges 2:17+ which says "they did not listen (shama) to their judges" and instead "they played the harlot after other gods and bowed themselves down to them. They turned aside quickly from the way in which their fathers had walked." The key word is listen (shama) which means hear and heed what you hear and thus conveys the sense of hearing with reverence and obedient assent. The clear implication is that the judges spoke truth but the sons of Israel flatly rejected the truth, reflecting the hardness of their hearts! So the LORD strengthened (chazaq) Eglon the king of Moab against Israel - So functions as a term of conclusion. The conclusion was God had to judge Israel for their evil actions. This clearly shows God's sovereignty (see His attribute = Sovereign) in human affairs. God is not battling against Satan in some kind of "power struggle". The Hebrew word means give a person strength to overcome or oppress another [Dt 31:17+]. The irony of this passage is that earlier this same word was used of Israel "It came about when Israel became strong." (Jdg 1:28+). The origin of Moab (Ge 19:30-38) and its relations with Israel during the wilderness wanderings (Nu 22:1-25:18) resulted in God's judgment against both the Moabites and the Ammonites (Dt 23:1-3, 6). In the OT God in His sovereignty frequently chose to use pagan rulers to accomplish His purpose of punishing Israel (Isa 10:5, Isa 45:1, Ezek 30:24, etc). Because they had done evil in the sight of the LORD - Because is a straightforward term of explanation in this passage! Compare how they turned aside quickly (Jdg 2:17+) and acted more corruptly (Jdg 2:19+) Phrase in the sight of the LORD - 93x in 92v (and in 57 uses the word EVIL precedes this phrase most often in Kings and Chronicles!) - Gen. 38:7; Gen. 38:10; Lev. 10:19; Num. 32:13; Deut. 4:25; Deut. 6:18; Deut. 9:18; Deut. 12:25; Deut. 12:28; Deut. 13:18; Deut. 17:2; Deut. 31:29; Jdg. 2:11; Jdg. 3:7; Jdg. 3:12; Jdg. 4:1; Jdg. 6:1; Jdg. 10:6; Jdg. 13:1; 1 Sam. 12:17; 1 Sam. 15:19; 1 Sam. 26:24; 2 Sam. 11:27; 2 Sam. 15:25; 1 Ki. 3:10; 1 Ki. 11:6; 1 Ki. 14:22; 1 Ki. 15:5; 1 Ki. 15:11; 1 Ki. 15:26; 1 Ki. 15:34; 1 Ki. 16:7; 1 Ki. 16:19; 1 Ki. 16:25; 1 Ki. 16:30; 1 Ki. 21:20; 1 Ki. 21:25; 1 Ki. 22:43; 1 Ki. 22:52; 2 Ki. 3:2; 2 Ki. 3:18; 2 Ki. 8:18; 2 Ki. 8:27; 2 Ki. 12:2; 2 Ki. 13:2; 2 Ki. 13:11; 2 Ki. 14:3; 2 Ki. 14:24; 2 Ki. 15:3; 2 Ki. 15:9; 2 Ki. 15:18; 2 Ki. 15:24; 2 Ki. 15:28; 2 Ki. 15:34; 2 Ki. 16:2; 2 Ki. 17:2; 2 Ki. 17:17; 2 Ki. 18:3; 2 Ki. 21:2; 2 Ki. 21:6; 2 Ki. 21:16; 2 Ki. 21:20; 2 Ki. 22:2; 2 Ki. 23:32; 2 Ki. 23:37; 2 Ki. 24:9; 2 Ki. 24:19; 1 Chr. 2:3; 2 Chr. 14:2; 2 Chr. 20:32; 2 Chr. 21:6; 2 Chr. 22:4; 2 Chr. 24:2; 2 Chr. 25:2; 2 Chr. 26:4; 2 Chr. 27:2; 2 Chr. 28:1; 2 Chr. 29:2; 2 Chr. 29:6; 2 Chr. 33:2; 2 Chr. 33:6; 2 Chr. 33:22; 2 Chr. 34:2; 2 Chr. 36:5; 2 Chr. 36:9; 2 Chr. 36:12; Ps. 116:15; Isa. 49:5; Jer. 52:2; Mal. 2:17; Lk. 1:15; 2 Co. 8:21 Related Resources: What is the significance of Moab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org When did Moab and Ammon eventually worship the Lord (Zephaniah 2:11)? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Moabites? | GotQuestions.org Strengthen (02388) chazaq means to make strong, giving the ability to accomplish what is intended implying an element of resolve is needed as well. God commanded Joshua to "be strong." (Joshua 1:6) Chazaq in Judges - Jdg. 1:28; Jdg. 3:12; Jdg. 7:8; Jdg. 7:11; Jdg. 7:20; Jdg. 9:24; Jdg. 16:26; Jdg. 16:28; Jdg. 19:4; Jdg. 19:25; Jdg. 19:29; Jdg. 20:22; Judges 3:13 And he gathered to himself the sons of Ammon and Amalek; and he went and defeated Israel, and they possessed the city of the palm trees. And he gathered to himself the sons of Ammon Jdg 5:14; Psalms 83:6 Amalek Ex 17:14,16, Dt 25:17,19, Ge 36:12, Esther 3:1 City of the palm trees - Jdg 1:16+, Dt 34:3 Related Passages: Exodus 17:8-16+ (AMALEK)Then Amalek came and fought against Israel at Rephidim. 9 So Moses said to Joshua, “Choose men for us and go out, fight against Amalek. Tomorrow I will station myself on the top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand.” 10 Joshua did as Moses told him, and fought against Amalek; and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. 11 So it came about when Moses held his hand up, that Israel prevailed, and when he let his hand down, Amalek prevailed. 12 But Moses’ hands were heavy. Then they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it; and Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side and one on the other. Thus his hands were steady until the sun set. 13 So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. 14 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this in a book as a memorial and recite it to Joshua, that I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” 15 Moses built an altar and named it The LORD is My Banner; 16 and he said, “The LORD has sworn; the LORD will have war against Amalek from generation to generation.” ISRAEL DEFEATED BY HER SINS And he gathered to himself the sons of Ammon and Amalek (E & N of Moab): () Ammon was the son by the youngest daughter of Lot (Moab by the oldest daughter). Amalek is the grandson of Esau (Esau I hated [Ro 9:13+] = because he never had any desire to obey God). GOD IS USING: a people whose legacy is nothing but evil and God had even said the Amalekites were to be blotted out. YET GOD RAISED THEM UP. The Amalekites had followed the Israelites all across the wilderness with harassing and warlike thrusts, going back to the battle at Rephidim, when Moses held up his hands with help of Aaron & Hur and God (Jehovah Nissi) gave Israel the victory under Joshua's command Amalek - 37 OT uses - Gen. 36:12, 16; Ex 17:8ff, 13f, 16; Num. 13:29; 24:20; Deut. 25:17, 19; Jdg. 3:13; 5:14; 6:3, 33; 7:12; 10:12; 1 Sam. 14:48; 15:2f, 5ff, 18, 20, 32; 28:18; 30:18; 2 Sam. 1:1; 8:12; 1 Chr. 1:36; 4:43; 18:11; Ps. 83:7): THOUGHT - DO YOU THINK THAT YOUR SIN IS NOT SERIOUS BEFORE GOD? FALLEN FLESH NEVER GETS BETTER BELOVED (Gal 5:16, 17+). We must learn from Israel rather than being judgmental of their waywardness. The people that God has right now in your life who are driving you crazy are probably those who reflect the same sinful tendencies you have expressed! Related Resources: What is the significance of the land of Ammon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Ammonites? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Amalekites? | GotQuestions.org And he went and defeated Israel, and they possessed (yarash; Lxx - kleronomeo - "receive as a possession") the city of the palm trees - City of the Palm trees is Jericho which was under a curse (Joshua 6:26+), and there’s no evidence that the city per se had been rebuilt but the location was ideal for directing military operations, as it was centrally positioned along major roadways and known for its fresh water oases (fed by the Jordan River) providing an abundance of water. Note the bitter irony that it was the city of Jericho that marked the first victory for Israel after they crossed the Jordan River into the promised land. And now it was once again in enemy hands! THOUGHT - There is no partiality with God (Dt 10:17+, 1Pe 1:17+, cf attribute Impartiality)! God does not play favorites, so even (or "especially") as believers in Jesus Christ we must all be careful in playing with sin, lest the "(spiritual) land we once possessed" be allowed by God to be conquered by the enemy. What do I mean? That is to say that areas of our spiritual life where we formerly had sweet victory could end up like the city of Jericho and become areas of dismal defeat if we persist in the sin which so easily entangles us (Heb 12:1+). Rest assured that Sin is incorrigible and insatiable and will always "take more territory" over time if it is not killed (Ro 8:13+, Col 3:5+)! Sin does not remain static but is like water, seeking its lowest point. In other words, the gravity of sin is progressively down, down, down! Do not be deceived beloved brethren (Gal 6:7-8+)! Another bitter irony in this passage is the fact that the Moabites possessed what Israel should have possessed! The use of the verb possessed (yarash - also means to "drive out") is a keyword in Judges 1. For example in Judges 1:19 "Judah, and they took possession (yarash) of the hill country; but they could not drive out (yarash) the inhabitants of the valley because they had iron chariots." In Judges 1:20 Caleb "drove out (yarash) from there the three sons of Anak." In Judges 1:21 "Benjamin did not drive out (yarash) the Jebusites who lived in Jerusalem." In Judges 1:27 "Manasseh did not take possession (yarash) of Beth-shean and its villages." In Judges 1:28 "when Israel became strong, that they put the Canaanites to forced labor, but they did not drive them out (yarash) completely." HERE IS THE POINT - Because Israel did not drive out the idolatrous enemies and possess their land, like a boomerang, this failure to execute was in fact executed by Yahweh on the sons of Israel who became possessions (slaves) of their enemies! Sin (Sin = Principle) is a cruel depot who continually seeks to usurp the rightful rule of Jesus and reign on the throne of our heart, and thus Paul commands us to continually "not let sin reign (present imperative with a negative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts." (Ro 6:12+) Related Resources: What is the significance of Jericho in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did Joshua curse Jericho in Joshua 6:26? | GotQuestions.org Possessed (03423) yarash to take possession of, inherit, dispossess, to drive out. Possession of the land was directly connected to a person's relationship with the Lord; breaking the covenantal relationship led to dispossession. But even in exile, Israelites awaited the day when they would repossess the land (Jer. 30:3). The verb yārash is an especially important word in contexts dealing with Israel's conquest of and possession of the land of Canaan. Yarash in Judges - Jdg. 1:19; Jdg. 1:20; Jdg. 1:21; Jdg. 1:27; Jdg. 1:28; Jdg. 1:29; Jdg. 1:30; Jdg. 1:31; Jdg. 1:32; Jdg. 1:33; Jdg. 2:6; Jdg. 2:21; Jdg. 2:23; Jdg. 3:13; Jdg. 11:21; Jdg. 11:22; Jdg. 11:23; Jdg. 11:24; Jdg. 14:15; Jdg. 18:7; Jdg. 18:9; Judges 3:14 And the sons of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years. Lev 26:23-25; Dt 28:40,47-48 Related Passages: Deuteronomy 28:47-48+ “Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and a glad heart, for the abundance of all things; 48 therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the LORD will send against you, in hunger, in thirst, in nakedness, and in the lack of all things; and He will put an iron yoke on your neck until He has destroyed you. ENSLAVED TO AN IDOL WORSHIPPING KING And the sons of Israel served (abad) Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years - This result is exactly what Moses had warned Israel would come to pass (see passage above). The Hebrew verb served (abad) is translated in the Septuagint by the verb douleuo which means in essence to be owned by another, to be subjected to them, to be forced to conduct oneself as one it total service to the other (King Eglon in this case) and thus to perform the duties of a slave. There is also an ironic twist, because douleuo figuratively describes spiritual or moral enslavement, as to sin the NT. The point is that since they would not be enslaved to the living God, He allowed them to become enslaved to the sin of idolatry and to serve those like Eglon who gladly worshipped the false gods. It is interesting that the listed periods of servitude in the book of Judges total 111 years and included subjection to no less than nine different nations. Israel's periods of apostasy were costly. Served (enslave, serve) (05647) abad means to work (to cultivate, till - Ge 2:5, 15 - Lxx = ergazomai before the fall! Ge 3:23 after the fall, Lxx = ergazomai), to serve (be enslaved or hold in bondage - Ex 6:6 - Lxx = katadouloo = make a slave; Lev 25:38, 39 Lxx = douleuo)(Ge 14:4, 15:13, 14 - Lxx = douleuo), worship. Labor (as when Israel was in Egyptian bondage - Ex 1:13,14 but same word abad translated worship after redemption Ex 3:12, 7:16, 8:1, 8:20, 9:1, et al where Lxx = latreuo). Judges 3:15 But when the sons of Israel cried to the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer for them, Ehud the son of Gera, the Benjamite, a left-handed man. And the sons of Israel sent tribute by him to Eglon the king of Moab. But when the sons of Israel cried to the LORD Jdg 3:9 Ps 50:15 Ps 78:34 Ps 90:15 Jer 29:12,13 Jer 33:3 Ehud the son of Gera, the Benjamite, a left-handed man Jdg 20:16 1Chr 12:2 sent tribute by him to Eglon the king of Moab (1Sa 10:27; Pr 18:16; 19:6; 21:14; Isa 36:16) Related Passages: Judges 20:16 Out of all these people 700 choice men were left-handed; each one could sling a stone at a hair and not miss. 1 Chronicles 12:2 They were equipped with bows, using both the right hand and the left to sling stones and to shoot arrows from the bow; they were Saul’s kinsmen from Benjamin. But when - This is an important combination (term of contrast + a time phrase). It marks a change in Yahweh's disposition from His anger being kindled to His mercy and grace flowing forth on His needy people. The sons of Israel cried to the LORD - Cried is the same Hebrew word (za'aq) used in Jdg 3:9 translated in the Septuagint by the same Greek verb krazo. It only says they cried, but it does not say they expressed contrition or repentance. The LORD raised up a deliverer for them - Note it is not recorded that the Spirit of the Lord came upon Ehud as in the case of Othniel. Yet Ehud clearly knows by Whose power the battle is fought and won (Jdg 3:28+). "History is His story,” but as God executes His divine decrees, He never violates human responsibility, but rules and overrules in the affairs of individuals and nations to accomplish His purposes on earth (cf Isa 55:8- 9, Ro 11:33-36+). The Apostle Paul wrote in to the believers in Corinth reminding them of a principle every Christian needs to take to heart: we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" (2Cor 10:3-5+) When God goes to war, He usually chooses the most unlikely soldiers, hands them the most unusual weapons, and accomplishes through them the most unpredictable results. For example, God gave Shamgar an ox goad, and with it he killed 600 men (Jdg 3:31+). Jael used a hammer and tent peg to kill a captain (Jdg 4:21+), and Gideon routed the whole Midianite army with only pitchers and torches as weapons (Jdg 7:20+). Samson slaughtered 1,000 Philistines using the jawbone of a donkey (Jdg 15:15+), and young David killed the giant Goliath with a stone hurled from a shepherd’s sling (1Sa 17:34-54). West Point Military Academy isn’t likely to offer courses on how to use these weapons! Though our technologically advanced world has changed dramatically since the days of the Judges, our internal enemy, the flesh, and our external enemy, the world, are both the same relentless adversaries in this "Holy War" (a war for holiness) because human nature hasn’t changed (1Jn 2:15-17+, Ro 5:12+, Ep 2:2-3+). As long as we are in this world, God’s people are also involved in a spiritual war against our third enemy the devil, our invisible adversary and the one in control of this godless world (1Jn 5:19+). God is still looking for men and women who have what it takes to win - power (made strong in weakness 2Cor 12:9+; 2Cor 12:10+), strategy, and courage (1Cor 15:58+). These three essentials for victory are illustrated in this chapter in the lives of the first three judges. Ehud the son of Gera, the Benjamite, a left-handed man - Ehud means unity or united, perhaps reflecting the fact that God would use him to unite the Israelites against Moab and bring unity to the nation for the next 80 years (but this is speculation on my part!). Benjamite means a "of Benjamin" and Benjamin (ben = son + yamin = right hand) means son of the right hand. The phrase left-handed man literally reads that Ehud was "hindered (bound or handicapped) in the right hand" an ironic situation for a descendant of the tribe of Benjamin which means "son of my right hand"! Ehud concealed his dagger on his right side, an unexpected place. Many of the tribe of Benjamin were left-handed (Jdg 20:16+) and perhaps even ambidextrous (1Chr 12:2). Note the Septuagint (LXX) translates "left-handed" with the Greek word for ambidextrous adding support to the supposition that this may have been the case. Certainly if Ehud were able to function with his right hand it would have made his ruse even more subtle. In any event the battle and the victory was the LORD's. Treasury of Scripture Knowledge has this note on left-handed man - Hebrew = shut of his right hand, This Hebrew phrase intimates that, either through disease or disuse, he made little or no use of the right hand, but of his left only, and so was the less fit for war, because he would most likely wield a dagger awkwardly. Yet God chose this left-handed man to be the minister of his retributive justice. It was God's right hand that gained Israel the victory, Ps 44:3; not the right hand of the instruments he employed. Jdg 20:16 1Ch 12:2 Psalm 44:3 For by their own sword they did not possess the land, And their own arm did not save them, But Your right hand and Your arm and the light of Your presence, For You favored them. And the sons of Israel sent tribute by him to Eglon the king of Moab - How the sons of Israel came to select Ehud for this job is not known. Also it is not known if they understood Ehud was to go on an assassination mission. As part of their enslavement to Eglon they had to pay the piper. Sin is costly! Tribute (offering) (04503) minchah means a gift (given to another without compensation = Ge 32:13, 2Ki 8:8), tribute ( payment by one ruler or nation to another in acknowledgment of submission or as the price of protection = Jdg 3:14, 2Sa 8:2; Hos 10:6) or offering (as a gift offered to God). In Judges 3 note these overriding principles: 1). God uses completely different kinds of men. Don't look for a stereotype of the kind of person God uses. You may not be an Othniel but remember Judges 3 and the fact that God uses Ehud's and Shamgars. 2). God uses those who draw their strength from Him. See Isaiah 40:31 where the word renew is really exchange or replace. So those who wait for the Lord will exchange their weaknesses for His strength. 3). God uses those who step out in faith and trust Him. All 3 of these judges had to take a risk & step out in faith (not sight), humbly taking God at His word & in that assurance confronting the enemy. Related Resources Spiritual Warfare: Ephesians 6:10-18 exposition by Wayne Barber Ephesians 6:10: SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 1 Ephesians 6:11: SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 2 Ephesians 6:14: SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 3 Ephesians 6:15-16:SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 4 Ephesians 6:17: SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 5 Ephesians 6:12-13:SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 6 Ephesians 6:18: SPIRITUAL WARFARE, PT 7 1Pe 5:8, 9 -Resisting the Roaring Lion (1Peter 5:8) (1Pet 5:9) Spiritual Warfare: Battle Strategy For the War with Satan by Ray Stedman See also Ep 6:10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17- Verse by Verse notes on Ephesians 6:10; 11; 12; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17 QUESTION - Who was Ehud? ANSWER - Who was Ehud? Ehud served as the second judge of Israel following Othniel. After Othniel’s death, the people of Israel sinned and fell to the king of Moab, serving him for 18 years (Judges 3:13–14). When the Israelites cried out for help, God sent Ehud to serve as judge. Facts about Ehud include that he was the son of Gera and belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. He was also noted as a left-handed man (Judges 3:15). This detail would become important to the success of his mission. Beginning in Judges 3:16, we read that Ehud made himself a small sword (about 16 inches long) and strapped it to his right thigh under his clothes—had Ehud been right-handed, he would have carried the sword on his left side. Next, he visited the Moabites’ King Eglon under pretense of paying a tribute. When Ehud was checked for weapons, his small sword was apparently missed as it was in an unexpected location. Following the presentation of his tribute, Ehud said that he had a secret message for the king. Everyone left the room except Ehud and King Eglon. Ehud then pulled out his sword and stuck it into the king’s stomach. The king was obese, and the sword disappeared inside his belly. Ehud left the sword and escaped through a porch opening. When Eglon’s servants later found the king dead, Ehud had already escaped and rallied the people of Israel. Going to the town of Seraiah, located in Ephraim, Ehud sounded a horn or shofar. The Israelites cut off the Moabites at the Jordan River. Judges 3:29 records that about 10,000 Moabites were killed in the battle. Once free from Eglon’s rule, the Israelites enjoyed 80 years of peace, the longest peaceful period recorded during the time of the judges (Judges 3:30). While this account is one of the more graphic scenes in Scripture, it is also very insightful. The original readers would have seen the power of God in this story for a variety of reasons. First, a lone man walked into the king’s palace, assassinated the king, and walked out without being captured. This was a highly unexpected event that involved great risk. Second, one battle changed the next 80 years of Israel’s history. Ehud’s story involves more than removing a wicked leader; it includes a change in national history for an entire generation. Third, Ehud’s success is a story of freedom. Just as God had redeemed Israel from Pharaoh and the land of Egypt when they cried out for help, God redeemed Israel from their bondage under King Eglon when they turned to Him. What can we learn by asking the question, “Who was Ehud?” Ehud’s actions offer a valuable look at how God can change the course of a nation in a single day when He responds to the cries of His people. Further, we see God being faithful to His promise to help Israel when they repented of their sins and turned to Him—a lesson relevant still today.GotQuestions.org Judges 3:16 And Ehud made himself a sword which had two edges, a cubit in length; and he bound it on his right thigh under his cloak. Psalm 149:6; Hebrews 4:12; Revelation 1:16; 2:12 Jdg 3:21; Psalm 45:3; Song of Solomon 3:8 DELIVERANCE WITH A HOMEMADE DAGGER And Ehud made himself a sword which had two edges, a cubit in length: The sword was from the elbow to knuckles, about 18 inches and he bound it on his right thigh under his cloak - In this location it would be easier to reach for the sword with his left hand. Also it would be less likely to be discovered by the guards as they would concentrate on the left hip because most people were right handed and would draw a dagger from their left hip. Henrietta Mears comments on "God’s delight in using the weak things (see 1 Corinthians 1:26–29)—Note the stories of Ehud, an assassin with a homemade dagger (see Judges 3); Deborah, a woman (see Judges 4; see also Judges 9:53); Gideon, a man from an obscure family in the smallest tribe (see Judges 6); Shamgar, a rustic with an ox goad (see Judges 3:31); Gideon’s little pitcher-armed band (see Judges 7); the jaw bone used by Samson (see Judges 15:14–19). (What the Bible is All About - borrow for one hour) Leadership Lessons From A Left-Handed Guy 3 questions every leader should ask Scott Martin, a lefty himself, draws an interesting series of questions from the story of Ehud, questions which are especially relevant to those who are leaders in their churches. He emphasizes that Ehud was a man who took risks for his scheme posed major problems. What if the curious bulge on his right thigh was detected? What about the Moabite equivalent of metal detectors? Would he receive a private audience with the king? Would his entourage escape? Martin goes on to note that… Your idea may present problems, too. Where is your follow-through? Ehud did not stop with killing Eglon. What good would it have done to kill one Moabite king? The Moabites would simply replace him with another just as cruel, and kill a few hundred Israelites out of revenge. Some plan, Ehud! However, Jdg 3:27 (note) says Ehud “blew a trumpet in the hill country of Ephraim,” and Israelite warriors streamed out of the hills, “taking possession of the fords of the Jordan that led to Moab” (Jdg 3:28). This, too, was part of Ehud’s plan. His fellow Jews from all over Israel had secretly prepared to fight at this prearranged signal. Because of Ehud’s follow-through, the Israelites drove the Moabites out of their land, striking down 10,000 men. “Not a man escaped” (Jdg 3:29). This raises a second question for leaders: Where is your follow-through? Without the infrastructure of a prepared army, Ehud would have accomplished little except to anger the Moabites. Because of infrastructure, the Moabites were driven out, and Israel enjoyed peace for 80 years. Today a lot is being written about the importance of vision for leaders. Leaders must cast a vision for followers, we are told. Inspire them. Paint a big, exciting picture. But too many leaders stop there. They don’t think beyond the heroic deed. Ehud’s vision was exciting, but it was his prearranged infrastructure that brought success. I confess—I find it easier to start stuff than to finish it… Some leaders are forever starting new programs. Good programs… But before launching still another new program, consider what it will take to follow through. Have you identified the obstacles? Do you have the skills to make it happen? The staff? The money? The equipment? Don’t let questions about infrastructure stop you from dreaming. But unless you think your dreams through to completion, you will be merely a visionary, perhaps even a hero, but not a leader… Planning infrastructure takes energy. Sometimes leaders are tempted to delegate the hard work of follow-through so they can major on dreaming. Not Ehud. According to Judges 3:27 (note), when the Israelites came streaming out of the hills to fight the Moabites, Ehud was in the lead. Follow-through is an important difference between a leader and a visionary. Who are you training to carry on your vision? In Judges 4:1 we read, “After Ehud died, the Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the Lord.” That is the final verse of Scripture about Ehud. Even though the land was undisturbed by enemies for 80 years (Jdg. 3:30), the children of Israel went back to doing evil after their leader Ehud died. Would the history of Israel have been different if Ehud had left a legacy of strong, godly leaders? The same question could be asked of other leaders in the Bible. Whom did Gideon leave behind? Or Joshua? Or Rehoboam? Paul exhorted Timothy in 2Ti 2:2 (note) to entrust the teaching he’d learned from Paul to “faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (KJV). Similarly, although Jesus was busy with public ministry, He purposely took time to train 12 disciples. Look carefully at where Jesus spent His time, especially in His closing months. Developing future leaders does not happen by accident. Are you purposely recruiting and developing protégés who believe in your vision as much as you do? Who will carry out your dreams once you are gone? Dawson Trotman (Born to Reproduce), founder of The Navigators, constantly asked, Where’s your man? Where’s your woman? Where is that one you are giving your life to? Too many of us are preoccupied with just getting through our weekly do-list. We seldom think about training replacements or grooming our followers to carry more responsibility. As you lead, let the legacy of Ehud challenge you. Ask yourself these three questions: Am I taking initiative … or waiting? Do I have an infrastructure for my initiatives? Am I recruiting and training protégés? I have found these questions to be a helpful checklist as I attempt to serve Christ. They are simple but profound, even if they do come from a left-handed guy we’ve barely heard of! (Martin, Scott: Leadership Lessons From A Left-Handed Guy 3 questions every leader should ask - originally published in Discipleship Journal 96 - Nov/Dec - 1996) Judges 3:17 And he presented the tribute to Eglon king of Moab. Now Eglon was a very fat man. And he presented the tribute to Eglon king of Moab. Now Eglon was a very fat man.. (Jdg 3:29; *marg:; 1Samuel 2:29; Job 15:27; Psalms 73:7,19; Jeremiah 5:28; 50:11; Ezekiel 34:20)Judges Judges 3:18 And it came about when he had finished presenting the tribute, that he sent away the people who had carried the tribute. And it came about when he had finished presenting the tribute, that he sent away the people who had carried the tribute - After presenting the gift, Ehud dismissed the people who had carried the present to their own homes; namely, as we learn from [v19] after they had gone some distance from Jericho. But he himself returned from the IDOLS at Gilgal to Jericho to king Eglon. One thing is for certain. Ehud was willing and brave enough to carry out this task by himself, and ultimately we see his "power Source" was God (cp v28). Judges 3:19 But he himself turned back from the idols which were at Gilgal, and said, "I have a secret message for you, O king." And he said, "Keep silence." And all who attended him left him. the idols - Joshua 4:20 secret message - Jdg 3:20; 2Ki 9:5,6; Acts 23:18,19 And all who attended him left him. - Ge 45:1 But he himself turned back from the idols which were at Gilgal, and said, "I have a secret message for you, O king."- The context seems to require that we understand Ehud "said" in the sense of "he had the king told" since Ehud himself did not go in to the king, who was sitting in his room until afterwards (v20). In consequence of this message the king said lit. be silent (the imperative); here it is a proclamation, "Let there be quiet". Judges 3:20 And Ehud came to him while he was sitting alone in his cool roof chamber. And Ehud said, "I have a message from God for you." And he arose from his seat. Jdg 3:19; 2Sa 12:1-15; 24:12; Micah 6:9 Ps 29:1; Jeremiah 10:7 And Ehud came to him while he was sitting alone in his cool roof chamber. : A room on the flat roof with many latticed windows to catch the summer breezes. And Ehud said, "I have a message from God for you." And he arose from his seat - "Message from God" is literally "a Word of God" and elsewhere refers to a prophetic oracle. F B