שופטים, פרק ג׳, פסוק ט״ו

The desperate cries of the Israelites to God bring about the rise of a new deliverer, Ehud son of Gera, who uses cunning and strategy to overthrow Moabite rule. God raises Ehud, a man from the tribe of Benjamin [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ], for a highly specific purpose. Unlike other judges who also guided the people spiritually, Ehud's role focuses entirely on physical and military rescue from the enemy, without assuming any religious leadership [מלבי״ם].

The personal details surrounding Ehud are essential to the success of his mission. He has a distinct physical condition regarding his right hand. The primary approach among commentators is that his right hand was naturally restricted or closed off, forcing him to rely entirely on his left hand, though some suggest his hand might have withered due to illness [רש״י]. This perceived limitation serves as a brilliant tactical advantage. Warriors typically carried their swords on their left thigh so they could draw the weapon quickly with their right hand. Because Ehud is left-handed, he conceals his sword on his right thigh. King Eglon of Moab, noticing no weapon on Ehud's left side and never anticipating a sudden strike from a left hand, remains completely off guard [מצודת דוד, רלב״ג, מלבי״ם, אלשיך].

To ensure the success of his plot, Ehud employs an additional layer of deception. He arrives bearing a formal tribute from the Israelites. This delivery is designed to show complete submission to the Moabite king. The gesture effectively lulls the king into a false sense of security, lowering his defenses and granting Ehud the direct, close-range access he needs without raising any suspicion [מצודת דוד, רלב״ג, מלבי״ם].