The name of one of Israel's early judges, appearing in Judges 3:31 and 5:6. Shamgar son of Anath is credited with striking down six hundred Philistines with an ox goad, delivering Israel in an era of oppression. His name is unusual—possibly Hittite or Hurrian rather than Semitic—and his patronymic, 'son of Anath,' may indicate a connection to the Canaanite goddess Anath or simply be a place name. The mention of Shamgar in Deborah's song (Judges 5:6) situates him in the era of caravans ceasing and travelers taking byways, a time of danger and disorder. He is a liminal figure, an outsider who brings deliverance.