When they chose new gods, then war came to their gates. Not a shield or spear was found among forty thousand in Israel. When they chose new godsThis phrase marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, highlighting the people's departure from Yahweh to idolatry. The Hebrew word for "chose" (בָּחַר, bachar) implies a deliberate decision, indicating that the Israelites consciously turned away from the God who delivered them. This choice of "new gods" reflects a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where Israel's infidelity leads to spiritual and physical consequences. Historically, this period was marked by the influence of surrounding pagan cultures, which often lured the Israelites into worshiping deities like Baal and Asherah. This choice is a stark reminder of the first commandment, emphasizing the exclusivity of worship due to Yahweh alone. then war came to their gates
The consequence of choosing new gods was immediate and severe: war. The Hebrew word for "war" (מִלְחָמָה, milchamah) suggests not just physical battles but also spiritual warfare. The phrase "to their gates" indicates that the conflict reached the very heart of their communities. In ancient times, city gates were central to a city's defense and commerce, symbolizing security and prosperity. The invasion of war to these gates signifies a breach in both physical and spiritual defenses, underscoring the vulnerability that comes from abandoning God. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolatry and the protection that comes from faithfulness to God. Not a shield or spear was seen
This phrase paints a picture of unpreparedness and vulnerability. The absence of a "shield" (מָגֵן, magen) or "spear" (חֲנִית, chanit) suggests that the Israelites were defenseless against their enemies. In a historical context, this could indicate a lack of military resources or a demoralized state due to their spiritual apostasy. Spiritually, it reflects the loss of God's protection and strength, which are often symbolized by armor in biblical literature. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity of spiritual readiness and reliance on God for protection. among forty thousand in Israel
The number "forty thousand" is significant, often symbolizing a large, complete group in biblical terms. This figure emphasizes the widespread nature of the problem; it wasn't just a few individuals but a significant portion of the nation that was affected. The use of "Israel" here underscores the collective identity and responsibility of God's chosen people. Historically, this reflects the tribal confederation of Israel during the time of the Judges, a period marked by cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. This serves as a call to collective faithfulness and unity under God's covenant. Persons / Places / Events 1. IsraelThe nation of God's chosen people, who are experiencing turmoil due to their idolatry and disobedience. 2. DeborahA prophetess and judge of Israel who, along with Barak, led Israel to victory over the Canaanite oppressors. 3. BarakThe military leader who, under Deborah's guidance, led the Israelites to victory. 4. CanaanitesThe oppressors of Israel during this period, led by King Jabin and his commander Sisera. 5. War in the GatesA phrase indicating the presence of conflict and danger at the very heart of Israel's communities. Teaching Points The Consequences of IdolatryChoosing new gods leads to vulnerability and conflict. When Israel turned away from God, they faced war and were left defenseless. Spiritual Warfare and PreparednessJust as Israel lacked physical weapons, Christians must ensure they are spiritually equipped with the armor of God to face spiritual battles. Leadership and ObedienceDeborah and Barak's leadership under God's guidance brought victory. Obedience to Godly leadership is crucial for overcoming challenges. The Importance of FaithfulnessIsrael's unfaithfulness led to their downfall. Remaining faithful to God is essential for spiritual and communal well-being. Community and AccountabilityThe absence of weapons among forty thousand highlights a communal failure. Believers must hold each other accountable to prevent spiritual decline. Bible Study Questions 1. What are the modern "new gods" that can lead us away from faithfulness to God, and how can we guard against them? 2. How does the lack of physical weapons in Israel relate to the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18? 3. In what ways can we ensure that our communities are spiritually prepared and not defenseless against spiritual attacks? 4. How can we apply the leadership qualities of Deborah and Barak in our own lives and communities today? 5. Reflect on a time when turning away from God led to personal or communal conflict. What steps can be taken to restore faithfulness and peace? Connections to Other Scriptures Deuteronomy 32:16-17This passage speaks of Israel's provocation of God through idolatry, similar to the situation in Judges 5:8. 1 Samuel 13:19-22Describes a similar situation where Israel was without weapons, highlighting their vulnerability due to disobedience. Psalm 106:34-39Reflects on Israel's repeated cycle of idolatry and the consequences that follow. Hosea 13:4Emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as the only Savior, contrasting with Israel's choice of new gods. 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 Armed, Arms, Body-cover, Chooseth, Chose, Chosen, Forty, Gates, Gods, Shield, Spear, Thousand, Towns, WarDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 5:8 5323 gate Judges 5:1-31 5420 music 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 5:8 NIVJudges 5:8 NLTJudges 5:8 ESVJudges 5:8 NASBJudges 5:8 KJV
Judges 5:8 Commentaries
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