The answer is: A cattle prod

Jdg 3:31 - The jawbone of the donkey, although also unusual, was the weapon of choice for Samson who slew 1,000 men. The "ox goad" (as written in many versions) was a long wooden pole with a metal point used for prodding the oxen to drive them.

Shamgar’s unconventional method of fighting highlights an intriguing aspect of biblical narratives: God often empowers ordinary people with extraordinary strength, using the simplest tools for remarkable deeds. With a cattle prod—often associated with agriculture and herding—Shamgar became a defender against the Philistines, who were among the longstanding foes of Israel. This tells us that one doesn’t have to be a mighty warrior to achieve great things; sometimes, the right moment and the right determination can lead to unexpected victories.

While using an ox goad may seem odd—it's a farming tool after all—it brings to mind other instances in the Bible where the letter of the law seems bent in favor of necessity. It resonates with other biblical figures, like David, who defeated Goliath using just a sling and five smooth stones. These examples illustrate a pattern in the scriptures where God uses humble beginnings and ordinary items, leading again and again to significance.

As we explore these striking stories, such as Shamgar’s triumph or Samson’s jawbone comeback, it points to a theme of faith and reliance on God rather than the might of man. It’s fascinating to think that every farmer's tool or shepherd's sling holds the potential to change history—they are echoes of divine strategy! So next time you pick up a familiar everyday object, remember that it might just become your greatest tool for good.