The verse Judges 3:23 from the King James Version of the Bible states: "Then Ehud went forth through the porch, and shut the doors of the parlour upon him, and locked them." This verse comes from the book of Judges in the Old Testament, and it is a part of the story of Ehud, a judge of Israel who led the Israelites in their struggle against the Moabites.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its meaning. In the preceding verses, Ehud is depicted as a left-handed man who has been chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Moabites. As part of his plan to assassinate Eglon, the oppressive king of Moab, Ehud conceals a double-edged sword on his right thigh and gains access to Eglon by claiming to have a secret message for him. Once alone with Eglon in his private chamber, Ehud swiftly and stealthily stabs the king with the hidden sword, killing him. Afterward, the verse in question describes Ehud's actions as he leaves the scene of the assassination, locking the doors of the room behind him.

There are several themes and symbols present in this verse that provide insight into the larger narrative and offer valuable spiritual lessons. One of the central themes is the idea of deliverance and liberation. The Israelites were living under the oppressive rule of Eglon, and Ehud's actions serve as a means of delivering his people from their suffering. This theme is reflective of God's promise to deliver His people from bondage and oppression, a recurring motif throughout the Bible. Ehud's role as a judge of Israel also highlights the importance of righteous leadership and the need for individuals who are willing to stand up for justice and truth.

The symbolism of Ehud locking the doors of the parlour upon himself after assassinating Eglon can be interpreted in several ways. On a symbolic level, the action of locking the doors can represent the finality of the deed, indicating that the oppressor's reign has come to an end. It also serves as a practical measure to ensure that Ehud's escape is not impeded and that he can deliver the news of Eglon's death to the Israelites without interruption.

Additionally, the act of locking the doors can be seen as a symbol of divine protection and guidance. Ehud's success in carrying out his mission demonstrates the providential assistance of God, who empowered him to overcome the seemingly insurmountable odds. The locked doors serve as a barrier to the enemy's pursuit, and they represent the shielding and safeguarding of God's people.

From a moral and ethical standpoint, the verse raises questions about the justification of Ehud's actions. While the Bible does not explicitly condone or condemn his assassination of Eglon, it does invite readers to contemplate the complexities of justice and the consequences of taking matters into one's own hands. Ehud's deed can be viewed as an extreme measure taken in a desperate situation, but it also underscores the importance of approaching issues of oppression and injustice with wisdom and discernment.

In conclusion, Judges 3:23 portrays the decisive and strategic actions of Ehud as he carries out God's plan to deliver the Israelites from the Moabite oppression. The verse conveys the themes of deliverance, righteous leadership, divine protection, and the complexities of justice. It also offers valuable insights into the moral and ethical considerations surrounding acts of liberation and resistance against oppression. As with many passages in the Bible, this verse encourages readers to engage critically with its content and to discern the deeper spiritual truths and lessons it contains.