The princes of Issachar were with Deborah, and Issachar was with Barak, rushing into the valley at his heels. In the clans of Reuben there was great indecision. The princes of IssacharThe tribe of Issachar is noted for its wisdom and understanding of the times ( 1 Chronicles 12:32). The "princes" here refer to the leaders or chiefs of the tribe, who aligned themselves with Deborah, the prophetess and judge of Israel. This alliance signifies the tribe's recognition of divine leadership and their willingness to support God's chosen leaders. Historically, Issachar's territory was fertile and strategically located, which may have contributed to their influential role in Israel's tribal confederation. were with Deborah
Deborah, a prophetess and judge, was a central figure in this narrative. Her leadership was divinely appointed, and her presence signifies God's guidance and authority. The phrase "were with Deborah" indicates a unity and support for her leadership, reflecting a collective acknowledgment of her role as God's mouthpiece. This unity is crucial in the context of Israel's fragmented tribal society, where allegiance to a common cause under divine direction was essential for victory. yes, Issachar was with Barak
Barak, the military leader called by God through Deborah, represents the human instrument of divine deliverance. The repetition of Issachar's support emphasizes their commitment and active participation in the battle. This phrase highlights the importance of collaboration between spiritual and military leadership in achieving God's purposes. It also underscores the tribe's courage and faith in following God's command, even when the odds seemed insurmountable. sent under his command into the valley
The "valley" refers to the battlefield where Barak led the Israelite forces against Sisera's army. The phrase "sent under his command" indicates a structured military strategy and obedience to leadership. This obedience is a reflection of faith and trust in God's plan, as Barak's command was divinely ordained. The valley, often a place of vulnerability, becomes a setting for God's miraculous intervention, turning potential defeat into victory. In the districts of Reuben
Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, had a significant inheritance but often struggled with indecision and instability, as seen in Genesis 49:4. The "districts" refer to the tribal territories, suggesting a division or separation within the tribe. This geographical and social context highlights the internal struggles and lack of unity that plagued Reuben, contrasting with the decisive action of Issachar. there was much searching of heart
This phrase indicates a period of introspection and hesitation among the Reubenites. The "searching of heart" suggests a struggle between fear and faith, a common human experience when faced with daunting challenges. Historically, this reflects Reuben's tendency towards indecision and reluctance to engage fully in collective efforts. Spiritually, it serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's heart with God's will and the consequences of failing to act decisively in faith. Persons / Places / Events 1. DeborahA prophetess and judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory over the Canaanite oppressors. Her leadership and faith are central to the account of Judges 4 and 5. 2. BarakThe military leader who, under Deborah's guidance, led the Israelite army against Sisera, the commander of the Canaanite army. 3. IssacharOne of the tribes of Israel, known for their wisdom and understanding of the times. The tribe's leaders supported Deborah and Barak in the battle. 4. ReubenAnother tribe of Israel, noted here for their indecision and internal conflict during the time of battle. 5. The ValleyRefers to the battlefield where Barak led the Israelites against Sisera's forces, likely the Valley of Jezreel. Teaching Points The Importance of Unity in LeadershipThe collaboration between Deborah, Barak, and the princes of Issachar demonstrates the power of unified leadership under God's guidance. In our lives, working together with others in faith can lead to victory over challenges. The Consequences of IndecisionThe "searching of heart" in Reuben serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of indecision and internal conflict. As believers, we are called to act decisively in obedience to God's call. Faith and ActionIssachar's willingness to follow Barak into the valley illustrates the balance of faith and action. Trusting in God's plan requires us to step out in faith, even when the path is uncertain. The Role of Women in God's PlanDeborah's leadership challenges cultural norms and highlights the significant role women can play in God's purposes. This encourages us to recognize and support the diverse gifts within the body of Christ. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the unity between Deborah, Barak, and the princes of Issachar inspire us to seek unity in our own communities and churches? 2. What lessons can we learn from the indecision of Reuben, and how can we apply these lessons to our decision-making processes today? 3. In what ways can we balance faith and action in our personal lives, as demonstrated by the tribe of Issachar? 4. How does Deborah's role as a leader challenge our understanding of leadership within the church and society? 5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "valley" in your life. How did faith and community support help you navigate through it? How can you offer similar support to others? Connections to Other Scriptures Judges 4Provides the account context for the events celebrated in Judges 5, detailing the battle against Sisera and the role of Deborah and Barak. 1 Chronicles 12:32Highlights the men of Issachar as those who understood the times, providing insight into their strategic importance and wisdom. Genesis 49:14-15Jacob's blessing over Issachar, describing them as strong and hardworking, which aligns with their supportive role in the battle. People Abinoam, Amalek, Anath, Asher, Barak, Benjamin, Dan, Deborah, Heber, Issachar, Jael, Machir, Naphtali, Reuben, Seir, Shamgar, Sisera, ZebulunPlaces Canaan, Edom, Gilead, Jordan River, Kishon River, Megiddo, Meroz, Seir, Sinai, TaanachTopics Barak, Chiefs, Clans, Deborah, Deb'orah, Decrees, Districts, Divisions, Faithful, Foot, Forth, Heart, Heels, Issachar, Is'sachar, Naphtali, Princes, Resolves, Reuben, Rushed, Rushing, Searching, Searchings, Thoughts, Valley, Watercourses, Yea, YesDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 5:15 5459 prince Judges 5:1-31 5420 music Judges 5:14-15 5489 rank Judges 5:14-31 5091 Deborah Judges 5:15-16 5017 heart, renewal Judges 5:15-17 5885 indifference Library Recreant Reuben
Why satest then among the sheepfolds, to hear the pipings for the flocks? At the watercourses of Reuben there were great searchings of heart.'--JUDGES v. 16 (R.V.). I. The fight. The warfare is ever repeated, though in new forms. In the highest form it is Christ versus the World, And that conflict must be fought out in our own souls first. Our religion should lead not only to accept and rely on what Christ does for us, but to do and dare for Christ. He has given Himself for us, and has thereby …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture 'All Things are Yours'
'They fought from heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sisera.'--JUDGES v. 20. 'For thou shalt be in league with the stones of the field: and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with thee.'--Job v. 23. These two poetical fragments present the same truth on opposite sides. The first of them comes from Deborah's triumphant chant. The singer identifies God with the cause of Israel, and declares that heaven itself fought against those who fought against God's people. There may be …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Love Makes Suns
'Let them that love Him be as the sun when he goeth forth in his might.' JUDGES V. 51. These are the closing words of Deborah, the great warrior-prophetess of Israel. They are in singular contrast with the tone of fierce enthusiasm for battle which throbs through the rest of the chant, and with its stern approval of the deed of Jael when she slew Sisera. Here, in its last notes, we have an anticipation of the highest and best truths of the Gospel. 'Let them that love Him be as the sun when he goeth …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Songs of Deliverance
The results which accrued from the conquest achieved by Barak, are upon a small scale similar to those which come to us through the deliverance wrought out by the Lord Jesus Christ. I shall take our text and spiritualize it, viewing its joyous details as emblematic of the blessings granted to us through our Redeemer. Those who went to draw water at the wells after Barak's victory, were no longer disturbed by the robbers who lurked at the fountains for purposes of plunder; and instead of drawing the …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 13: 1867 Whether the Orders Will Outlast the Day of Judgment?
Objection 1: It would seem that the orders of angels will not outlast the Day of Judgment. For the Apostle says (1 Cor. 15:24), that Christ will "bring to naught all principality and power, when He shall have delivered up the kingdom to God and the Father," and this will be in the final consummation. Therefore for the same reason all others will be abolished in that state. Objection 2: Further, to the office of the angelic orders it belongs to cleanse, enlighten, and perfect. But after the Day of …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Why is it that Our Lord Has Tarried Till Now? Why Has not the Redeemer Returned Long Ere This?
At first sight perhaps this inquiry might appear almost irreverent and some may feel inclined to remind us that "secret things belong unto the Lord." In response we would say, It is not in any spirit of idle curiosity nor is it to indulge an inquisitive speculation that we take up this question, but simply because we believe that a humble examination of it will prove profitable to our souls, inasmuch as the answer to our inquiry demonstrates the wisdom and grace of Him with whom we have to do. Of …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Hindrances to Revivals.
Text.--I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you."--Nehemiah vi. 3. THIS servant of God had come down from Babylon to rebuild the temple and re-establish the worship of God at Jerusalem, the city of his fathers' sepulchres. When it was discovered by Sanballat and certain individuals, his allies, who had long enjoyed the desolations of Zion, that now the temple, and the holy city were about to be rebuilt, they raised a great …
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion The Publication of the Gospel
The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it [or of the preachers] P erhaps no one Psalm has given greater exercise to the skill and patience of commentators and critics, than the sixty-eighth. I suppose the difficulties do not properly belong to the Psalm, but arise from our ignorance of various circumstances to which the Psalmist alludes; which probably were, at that time, generally known and understood. The first verse is the same with the stated form of benediction …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2 Salvation Published from the Mountains
O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid: say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! I t would be improper to propose an alteration, though a slight one, in the reading of a text, without bearing my testimony to the great value of our English version, which I believe, in point of simplicity, strength, and fidelity, is not likely to be excelled by a new translation …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1 The Sovereignty of God in Operation
"For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be the glory for ever. Amen" (Romans 11:36). Has God foreordained everything that comes to pass? Has He decreed that what is, was to have been? In the final analysis this is only another way of asking, Is God now governing the world and everyone and everything in it? If God is governing the world then is He governing it according to a definite purpose, or aimlessly and at random? If He is governing it according to some purpose, then …
Arthur W. Pink—The Sovereignty of God Appendix ix. List of Old Testament Passages Messianically Applied in Ancient Rabbinic Writings
THE following list contains the passages in the Old Testament applied to the Messiah or to Messianic times in the most ancient Jewish writings. They amount in all to 456, thus distributed: 75 from the Pentateuch, 243 from the Prophets, and 138 from the Hagiorgrapha, and supported by more than 558 separate quotations from Rabbinic writings. Despite all labour care, it can scarcely be hoped that the list is quite complete, although, it is hoped, no important passage has been omitted. The Rabbinic references …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
THE ISRAELITES IN THE LAND OF CANAAN: THE JUDGES--THE PHILISTINES AND THE HEBREW KINGDOM--SAUL, DAVID, SOLOMON, THE DEFECTION OF THE TEN TRIBES--THE XXIst EGYPTIAN DYNASTY--SHESHONQ OR SHISHAK DAMASCUS. The Hebrews in the desert: their families, clans, and tribes--The Amorites and the Hebrews on the left bank of the Jordan--The conquest of Canaan and the native reaction against the Hebrews--The judges, Ehud, Deborah, Jerubbaal or Gideon and the Manassite supremacy; Abimelech, Jephihdh. The Philistines, …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6 Judges
For the understanding of the early history and religion of Israel, the book of Judges, which covers the period from the death of Joshua to the beginning of the struggle with the Philistines, is of inestimable importance; and it is very fortunate that the elements contributed by the later editors are so easily separated from the ancient stories whose moral they seek to point. That moral is most elaborately stated in ii. 6-iii. 6, which is a sort of programme or preface to iii. 7-xvi. 31, which constitutes …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Judges 5:15 NIVJudges 5:15 NLTJudges 5:15 ESVJudges 5:15 NASBJudges 5:15 KJV
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