1 When Othniel died, the Israelites yet again fell into disorder, turned away from God, and neglected His laws. Consequently, Eglon, King of the Moabites, scorned them, attacked, and prevailed in several battles, overcoming their bravest men, and imposing tribute. Eglon established a palace at Jericho, harshly dominating the Israelites for eighteen years. But when they recognized their offense and prayed to God, He once more took pity and resolved to free them. 2 There was a young man of the tribe of Benjamin named Ehud, the son of Gera, a man of great courage and physical strength, though he was best at using his left hand, where his full power lay. He lived at Jericho, became friendly with Eglon by frequently presenting him with gifts, and earned favor among the king’s courtiers. One day, while presenting gifts, Ehud secretly strapped a dagger on his right thigh. It was midday in summer, and Eglon was resting in a cool chamber after his meal, with his attendants off guard, the heat having lulled them to dine. Alone with the king, Ehud said he had a message from God.⁠a Eglon rose excitedly from his throne to hear it, and Ehud, fearing a miss might not be fatal, quickly struck him to the heart, leaving the dagger buried in the wound. Then he slipped out and shut the doors behind him. Eglon’s servants assumed the king had lain down to rest and left him undisturbed until evening, when at last they feared something was amiss, entered, and found him dead. Before they could rally the guards, Ehud had warned the people of Jericho to rise and reclaim their freedom. 3 The people welcomed Ehud’s message. Armed, they blocked the Moabites’ escape at the Jordan. Eglon’s forces learned too late, and many were killed, some trying to flee. More than ten thousand Moabites died, and not one escaped. Through Ehud’s valor, the Israelites threw off Moabite oppression. Because of his deed and other virtues, Ehud became their ruler and served for eighty years, then died. He was succeeded by Shamgar, son of Anath, who died in his first year of office.