Definition: And Ehud put forth his left hand, and took the dagger from his right thigh, and thrust it into his belly:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Judges 3:21. It's a really striking image and carries a lot of meaning about courage, defiance, and protecting the innocent. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: A Wicked People: The verse tells us that Ehud was a man who had been falsely accused of evil and was being persecuted by the people of Israel. They were actively trying to harm him. Captured & Imprisoned: He was captured and imprisoned in a fortress, likely a place of punishment for his offenses. The Threat: The key thing is that these people weren’t just trying to hurt him; they were actively plotting to kill him. They were determined to make him die. What Happened Next? A Clever Strategy: Ehud, instead of running and hiding, made a truly remarkable decision. He immediately took a dagger – a sharp weapon – from his right thigh (the side he was using to walk). The Thrust: He then thrust the dagger into his belly . What Does This Mean? This is where it gets really powerful and symbolic: Defiance & Courage: Ehud wasn’t just defending himself; he was showing incredible courage. He faced a seemingly impossible situation – being imprisoned, threatened with death – and chose to fight back in a way that defied the enemy. Protecting the Innocent: The most important part is that this act of defiance wasn't about revenge. It was specifically aimed at protecting someone who was vulnerable – someone who was being harmed by these wicked people. He was prioritizing the safety of another person over his own life. A Symbol of Hope: This action is often interpreted as a powerful symbol of hope and resistance against evil. It suggests that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, it’s possible to choose a righteous path – to stand up for what's right, no matter the cost. In short, Ehud’s actions were a bold act of defiance that prioritized protecting someone vulnerable over his own safety. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its context within the larger story of Judges 3? Explore its symbolic meaning further?