Bible Dictionary
LEFTHANDED
Lefthanded describes a person who uses the left hand, whether by nature or habit. Scripture highlights Ehud and a group of Benjamite warriors who were skilled with the left hand.
Definition
Lefthanded describes a person who uses the left hand because the right is impaired or because the left is preferred by habit. The biblical expression may also be understood as ambidextrous.
Biblical Usage
Both biblical examples concern Benjamites. Ehud used his left hand in killing Eglon and delivering Israel from Moabite tribute. Seven hundred selected Benjamites could sling stones with great accuracy despite being lefthanded.
Historical Background
The Hebrew phrase literally suggests a person whose right hand is impeded or lame. The source notes the striking connection with Benjamin, whose name means “son of the right hand.”
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>left'-hand-ed ('iTTer yadh-yamin; Septuagint amphoterodexios, i.e. "ambidextrous"): The Hebrew presents a combination of words signifying literally, a man whose right hand is impeded or lame, who therefore uses the left hand instead, or one who by habit prefers the use of the left hand, where others use the right. It is interesting to note that in both instances, where the expression occurs in the Scripture, it refers to individuals belonging to the tribe of Benjamin (which name itself signifies "a son of the right hand"!). The first is Ehud, son of Gera, who killed Eglon, king of Moab, and thereby delivered Israel from paying tribute to the Moabites (Jud 3:15). The other instance is that of the 700 selected Benjamites, who, though lefthanded, "could sling stones at a hair-breadth, and not miss" (Jud 20:16; of 1Ch 12:2).</p><p>H. L. E. Luering</p>