Judges 3:17 (KJV)

What does Judges 3:17 mean?

Judges 3:17 describes how Ehud brought a tribute or gift to Eglon, the king of Moab, who is specifically described as a very fat man. This sets the scene for the events that follow, highlighting both the act of delivering the tribute and the physical description of Eglon.

In this passage, Ehud is carrying out a mission to deliver a required offering from the Israelites to their oppressor, Eglon, who ruled over them at that time. The detail about Eglon's size is unusual and draws attention, preparing the reader for the unique way the story will unfold in the next verses.

The Hebrew behind Judges 3:17

• "brought" (וַיַּקְרֵב, vayyakrev): This word often means to bring near or present, emphasizing the formal act of delivering the tribute.
• "present" (מִנְחָה, minchah): This term usually refers to a gift or offering, often one given in a context of submission or respect, which fits the Israelites' situation under Moabite rule.
• "very" (מְאֹד, me'od): This word intensifies the description, stressing that Eglon was not just overweight but extremely so.
• "fat" (בָּרִיא, bari): This word means fat or well-fed, and in ancient times, it could suggest wealth or abundance, but here it also sets up the physical details important to the story.

Why Judges 3:17 matters

• The verse highlights the power dynamic: Israel is under Moabite control and must bring tribute, showing their subjugation.
• The detailed description of Eglon’s size is not just incidental; it prepares the reader for the unusual events that will happen in the next part of the story.
• The use of specific Hebrew words for "present" and "fat" adds nuance, showing both the formality of the tribute and the striking physical presence of the Moabite king.