Judges 3:31 meaning

The final verse of Judges 3 serves as the introduction to the third judge of Israel who succeeds Ehud: After him came Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad; and he also saved Israel (v 31).

Shamgar’s establishment as judge follows the account of Ehud, displaying the continuity of God’s deliverance through successive judges. Shamgar is described as the son of Anath.

The Philistines, a seafaring people who settled along the southern coastal plains of Canaan, were a persistent threat to Israel throughout the period of the judges and into the time of the Jewish monarchy. Known for their military prowess and advanced weaponry (1 Samuel 13:5), the Philistines often oppressed the Israelites. Shamgar’s victory over six hundred Philistines would have been a staggering achievement, especially given the strength and reputation of the Philistine warriors.

Shamgar’s weapon of choice, an oxgoad, underscores his unconventional resourcefulness through which God will save His people. An oxgoad is a long, pointed stick used by farmers to drive oxen while plowing. Typically measuring about eight feet long, with a sharp metal point on one end and a flat chisel-like blade on the other, it was not a weapon designed for combat, but useful for violence nonetheless. Shamgar wielded this simple agricultural tool with deadly effect, striking down six hundred Philistines. This feat highlights that it is not the weapon, but the power of God working through an individual that brings about victory.

This verse encapsulates the unexpected ways God often works, using ordinary people and everyday tools to achieve extraordinary results. Shamgar, though not a traditional warrior, becomes a deliverer of Israel by using what he had available to him—a clear demonstration of faith and reliance on God’s provision.

The phrase He also saved Israel succinctly captures the impact of Shamgar’s actions. While in-depth detail of how he accomplished this is not provided, the statement affirms that Shamgar’s efforts were instrumental in delivering Israel from Philistine oppression during this period. His story serves as a reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of their tools or training, to bring about His purposes.