Bible Verse Commentary on Judges 3:17
Judges 3:17 (KJV): "And he brought the present unto Eglon king of Moab: and Eglon was a very fat man."
Overview: This verse serves as an introduction to a significant event in the Book of Judges, where Ehud, a left-handed judge, approaches Eglon, the king of Moab, with a present. This moment is pivotal in the narrative of Israel's struggle against their oppressors and displays the themes of cunning and divine deliverance.
Commentary Insights
This verse can be analyzed through the lens of several public domain commentaries:
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Matthew Henry: Henry notes that the act of presenting a gift to the king of Moab was not merely a diplomatic gesture but an essential part of Ehud's strategic plan. This highlights the importance of preparation and the use of wisdom in the face of oppression. Henry also remarks on the physical description of Eglon, implying that his obesity represents the decadence and corruption often found in oppressive rulers.
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Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that the term "present" indicates something valued and significant. The lavishness of the gift could signify the submission of Israel to Moab, which makes the subsequent uprising led by Ehud all the more dramatic. Barnes further emphasizes Eglon's gluttonous nature, contrasting it with the spirit of the oppressed, who seek freedom and salvation.
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Adam Clarke: Clarke delves deeper into the cultural context of the time, explaining that bringing gifts was a common practice to win favor or avoid hostility from powerful leaders. His observations stress the irony of Ehud, who bears a gift, while secretly planning to liberate his people from such tyranny. Eglon’s description as a "very fat man" not only illustrates his gluttony but symbolizes the burdensome nature of his rule over Israel.
Bible Verse Meanings
The meaning of Judges 3:17 encapsulates several critical themes:
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Divine Providence: The verse underscores that God’s hand is guiding events, even when they appear trivial or merely political. The gift to Eglon sets the stage for Israel's deliverance, showing that God can use any circumstance for His glory and purpose.
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Oppression and Resistance: Eglon’s reign over Israel exemplifies how oppressors can become complacent and indulgent, disconnected from the struggles of those they subjugate. This lays groundwork for understanding the lengths to which the oppressed will go to seek freedom.
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Sophisticated Strategy: Ehud’s cleverness highlights the necessity of strategy in overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. His ruse relies not merely on brute strength but on intellect and the element of surprise, which teaches an enduring lesson in conflict resolution.
Significance and Applications
The significance of Judges 3:17 extends beyond historical analysis into practical applications for today’s readers:
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Applying Bible Verses to Daily Life: Ehud's actions can inspire individuals to seek wise and thoughtful approaches to problems, highlighting the importance of patience and planning in our endeavors to resist wrong and seek justice.
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Understanding Difficult Bible Passages: This verse may be challenging for some readers due to the juxtaposition of gift-giving and deceit. Analyzing the cultural context allows deeper insights into the human condition and the complexity of moral dilemmas.
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Historical Context of Bible Verses: Knowing the background of Moab’s oppression of Israel enriches our understanding of God's dealings with His people, illustrating a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance prevalent throughout the Book of Judges.
Cross References
The themes and events in Judges 3:17 can be related to several other Bible passages:
- Judges 3:15: The call of Ehud as a deliverer.
- Judges 3:19: Ehud's cunning plan revealed.
- 1 Samuel 5:10-12: Another instance of divine deliverance from oppressors.
- Proverbs 20:18: The wisdom of counsel in strategic planning.
- Isaiah 10:1-4: A warning against oppressive regimes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the verse Judges 3:17 embodies a rich tapestry of themes relevant both in its historical context and in modern application. To grasp the meaning of Bible verses like this, one must engage in thorough scripture analysis, drawing insights from various biblical commentaries and applying them to current life situations. This serves not only to deepen one's understanding of Scripture but also to illuminate paths of action in times of turmoil.
