שופטים, פרק ג׳, פסוק כ׳

Ehud ben Gera steps close to Eglon, the king of Moab, for a fateful and private encounter. The king is relaxing in an upper room built on the roof, designed specifically as a summer retreat. This chamber features many windows to catch the breeze, cooling the air and offering relief on hot days [רש״י, רלב״ג, רד״ק, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, שטיינזלץ]. As Ehud physically approaches him [מצודת דוד, רלב״ג, מלבי״ם], the setting is completely isolated. The guards and servants have already been dismissed, leaving the king entirely alone [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם, שטיינזלץ].

To execute his plan, Ehud uses a calculated theological statement. He announces that he has a secret, divine message for the king, making it clear that this is no ordinary conversation [רלב״ג, שטיינזלץ]. Hearing this, the king rises from his throne to show honor, recognizing that it is proper to stand when receiving a message from God [רש״י, מצודת דוד, שטיינזלץ]. However, Ehud has a distinct tactical purpose behind this announcement. By prompting the king to stand, Ehud distracts him, creating a brief window of opportunity to draw his weapon and strike before the king can realize what is happening [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

Despite the fatal outcome of this encounter, the king's gesture of respect does not go unnoticed. Because he honored God by standing up to hear His name, Eglon receives a profound historical reward. Ruth the Moabite will eventually descend from his lineage, and through her, the royal dynasty of Israel will be established [רש״י, רד״ק].