Eglon

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Likely related to Hebrew ʿēgel (“calf/young bull”), a name form suggesting strength or stature.
• Period/Era: Divided Kingdom (Judges period)
• Main References: Judges 3:12–30
• Key Connections: Moab; allied with Ammon and Amalek; opposed Israel during the era of the judges; assassinated by Ehud of Benjamin.

Who was Eglon?

Eglon was the king of Moab who rose to power over Israel during a period of Israelite instability in the book of Judges.
He is portrayed as a foreign ruler through whom Israel experienced oppression after turning from the LORD.
His rule centered on controlling territory near the “city of palms” and collecting tribute from Israel.

Key Events & Achievements

• Oppression of Israel: Subjugated Israel for eighteen years after rallying Moab with Ammon and Amalek (Judges 3:12–14).
• Control of territory: Captured and held the “city of palms,” strengthening Moabite influence west of the Jordan (Judges 3:13).
• Death and collapse of Moabite control: Killed by Ehud during a tribute delivery, leading to Israel’s successful revolt (Judges 3:15–30).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Eglon’s account illustrates how foreign domination in Judges functions as a historical sign of Israel’s covenant unfaithfulness and need for deliverance.

Key Verse

"And the people of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years." — Judges 3:14, ESV