Question 1

What does Judges 3:18 mean?

Accepted Answer

Judges 3:18 describes how, after Ehud finished presenting a gift to the king of Moab, he sent away the group of people who had carried the gift with him. This verse marks the end of a formal presentation and sets the stage for what Ehud does next. In this scene, Ehud is an Israelite delivering a tribute—likely a required payment or offering—to Eglon, the king of Moab, who was oppressing Israel at the time. The verse shows Ehud following the expected customs by bringing the present with a group, then dismissing his companions, which leaves him alone for the events that follow.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Judges 3:18

Accepted Answer

"Present" (מִנְחָה, minchah) refers to a gift or offering, often used for tribute or something given to show respect or submission. Here, it highlights the political situation: Israel is under Moabite control and must bring tribute. "Bare" (נָשָׂא, nasa) means to carry or lift. The people with Ehud are not just companions but those physically carrying the tribute, emphasizing the size or importance of the gift. "Sent away" (שָׁלַח, shalach) means to send or dismiss. Ehud deliberately sends the group away, which is a key detail for what he is about to do alone.

Question 3

Why Judges 3:18 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse shows Ehud acting carefully and according to custom, which helps him avoid suspicion from the Moabites before his next move. The detail about sending away the people who carried the present sets up Ehud’s opportunity to act alone, which is crucial for the story’s turning point. Understanding the meaning of "present" as tribute clarifies the relationship between Israel and Moab at this time, showing Israel’s subjugation and the tension in the story.

Judges 3:18 (KJV)