Meaning of Judges 3:17

This verse, Judges 3:17, introduces a pivotal moment in the narrative of Israel's oppression under Eglon, the king of Moab. The "tribute" refers to the yearly payment of goods and resources that the Israelites were forced to render to Moab as a sign of their subjugation. This practice was a consequence of their disobedience to God, which led to their defeat and subsequent enslavement for eighteen years, as detailed in the preceding verses (Judges 3:12-14). The description of Eglon as a "very fat man" is not merely a descriptive detail; it serves to emphasize his oppressive power and the physical burden of his rule. His corpulence can be seen as symbolic of the burdensome and excessive nature of the tribute imposed upon Israel, and perhaps even a subtle commentary on the spiritual gluttony or decadence that Eglon, as a representative of the oppressors, embodied.

Context and Background

Following the death of Othniel, the first judge, Israel again fell into sin, doing evil in the sight of the Lord (Judges 3:12). This sinfulness led God to strengthen Eglon, king of Moab, against Israel. Eglon, in alliance with the Ammonites and Amalekites, defeated Israel and occupied Jericho, the "city of palm trees" (Judges 3:13). For eighteen years, the Israelites were oppressed under Eglon's rule. The tribute mentioned in verse 17 was the tangible manifestation of this oppression, a constant reminder of their lost freedom and God's displeasure.

Key Themes and Messages

• Consequences of Disobedience: The verse underscores the direct correlation between Israel's sin and their suffering. Their deviation from God's commands resulted in political and economic subjugation.
• Oppression and Submission: The tribute signifies the deep level of oppression and the forced submission of Israel to a foreign power.
• Symbolism of "Fatness": Eglon's physical size can be interpreted as symbolic of his power, his wealth derived from tribute, and the burdensome nature of his reign. It highlights the oppressive weight placed upon the Israelites.
• The Role of Judges: This verse sets the stage for the emergence of Ehud, the second judge, who will deliver Israel from Moabite oppression. The narrative of the judges is characterized by cycles of sin, oppression, crying out to God, and divine deliverance.

Spiritual Significance and Application

From a spiritual perspective, this verse illustrates the principle that sin carries consequences. Just as Israel's disobedience led to a tangible burden (the tribute), our own unfaithfulness to God can result in spiritual burdens, a sense of separation from Him, and a loss of freedom in Christ. The "fatness" of Eglon can be a metaphor for the ways in which sin can weigh us down, making spiritual progress difficult and hindering our relationship with God. The eventual deliverance by Ehud points to God's faithfulness and His willingness to rescue His people when they repent and cry out to Him.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This episode is a microcosm of the recurring theme in the Old Testament of Israel's covenant relationship with God. Their faithfulness brought blessings, while their unfaithfulness brought judgment and oppression. The book of Judges, in particular, is a testament to this cyclical pattern. The story of Eglon and Ehud prepares the reader for the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan, which culminates in the coming of Jesus Christ, who liberates humanity from the bondage of sin.

Analogies

• A Heavy Burden: The tribute can be likened to a heavy yoke or a crushing weight placed upon someone, symbolizing the oppressive nature of Eglon's rule and the economic drain on Israel.
• A Gluttonous King: Eglon's "fatness" can be compared to a king who consumes the resources and well-being of his people without restraint, much like a glutton overindulging to their own detriment.
• Spiritual Lethargy: The oppressive rule and the resulting tribute can be seen as analogous to spiritual lethargy or complacency that can set in when one is weighed down by sin or worldly concerns, hindering spiritual growth.

Relation to Other Verses

• Judges 3:12-14: These verses provide the immediate context, explaining why Israel was under Eglon's dominion due to their sin.
• Deuteronomy 28:48: This passage in Deuteronomy outlines the curses that would befall Israel if they disobeyed God, including servitude to their enemies and bearing heavy burdens. Judges 3:17 is a historical fulfillment of these prophetic warnings.
• Judges 3:20: This verse highlights Eglon's self-importance and his deceptive nature, emphasizing that he was sitting in his cool upper room, indicating a position of comfort and authority.
• Proverbs 23:20-21: This proverb warns against excessive eating and drinking, and associating with gluttons, which can lead to poverty. While Eglon is a king, his "fatness" can be seen as a symbol of excessive consumption, potentially at the expense of others.