Old Testament
Judges 3:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Ehud stepped out through the porch, shut the doors of the upper room behind him, and locked them.
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Then Ehud went forth through the porch, and shut the doors of the parlour upon him, and locked them.
What Judges 3:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 3:23, Ehud, a judge of Israel, cleverly escapes after assassinating Eglon, the Moabite king. He exits through the porch, which is likely a private area, ensuring he is not seen. By shutting and locking the doors behind him, he prevents anyone from discovering the murder immediately. This act demonstrates his strategic thinking and bravery, as he takes decisive action to deliver Israel from oppression. The locking of the doors symbolizes a moment of finality and secrecy, allowing him to make his escape without interruption. This passage highlights the importance of planning and execution in achieving one's goals, especially in difficult situations. Ehud's actions set the stage for Israel's deliverance from Moabite rule, showcasing how God can use unexpected individuals to fulfill His purposes.
How to apply Judges 3:23 to your life
This verse teaches us the value of careful planning and execution in our own lives. Just as Ehud took decisive action to free his people, we too can take bold steps to address challenges we face, trusting that God can guide our efforts for a greater purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 3:23
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At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 3:23 mean?
Judges 3:23 describes Ehud's escape after killing Eglon, the Moabite king. By locking the doors behind him, he ensures that no one discovers the murder immediately, showcasing his cleverness and strategic planning.
What is the significance of locking the doors in Judges 3:23?
Locking the doors symbolizes Ehud's desire for secrecy and finality after the assassination. It prevents immediate discovery of the act, allowing him to escape and fulfill his mission to deliver Israel.
Who is Ehud in Judges 3:23?
Ehud is one of the judges of Israel, known for his cleverness and bravery. In this verse, he plays a crucial role in freeing Israel from Moabite oppression by assassinating their king.
What lesson can we learn from Judges 3:23?
Judges 3:23 teaches the importance of careful planning and decisive action in overcoming challenges. It encourages us to take bold steps, trusting that our efforts can lead to significant change.
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