My heart is with the princes of Israel, with the volunteers among the people. Bless the LORD! My heartThe phrase "My heart" in Judges 5:9 reflects a deeply personal and emotional connection. In Hebrew, the word for heart is "לֵב" (lev), which often signifies the center of one's being, encompassing emotions, will, and intellect. In the context of this verse, it suggests a profound commitment and passion from Deborah, the prophetess and judge, as she expresses her innermost feelings and dedication to the cause of Israel. This phrase sets the tone for the rest of the verse, indicating that what follows is not just a matter of duty, but of heartfelt devotion. is with the princes of Israel
The "princes of Israel" refers to the leaders or nobles who played a crucial role in the battle against the Canaanite oppressors. The Hebrew word for princes is "שָׂרִים" (sarim), which can denote leaders, officials, or commanders. Deborah's heart being with them signifies her solidarity and support for those who have taken up the mantle of leadership in a time of crisis. Historically, these leaders were instrumental in rallying the tribes of Israel to unite against their common enemy, and Deborah's acknowledgment of them underscores the importance of godly leadership in achieving victory. who volunteered
The act of volunteering, as highlighted in this phrase, is significant in the context of ancient Israel. The Hebrew root "נָדַב" (nadav) implies a willing and generous offering of oneself. This voluntary action contrasts with conscription or obligation, emphasizing the willingness of the people to rise up and fight for their freedom. It reflects a spirit of selflessness and courage, qualities that are highly valued in the biblical narrative. The willingness of the people to volunteer is seen as a response to God's call and a testament to their faith and commitment to His purposes. to fight
The phrase "to fight" indicates the readiness and determination of the Israelites to engage in battle. The Hebrew word "לַחֲמוֹ" (lachamo) comes from the root "לָחַם" (lacham), meaning to fight or wage war. This term is often used in the context of spiritual and physical battles in the Bible. The willingness to fight signifies not only a physical confrontation but also a spiritual struggle against oppression and injustice. It highlights the courage and resolve required to stand against formidable foes, trusting in God's deliverance. Bless the LORD
The call to "Bless the LORD" is a powerful conclusion to this verse. The Hebrew word "בָּרוּךְ" (baruch) means to bless, praise, or kneel. In this context, it is an exhortation to give thanks and honor to God for His guidance and victory. This phrase serves as a reminder that all achievements and successes are ultimately due to God's providence and grace. It reflects a heart of gratitude and worship, acknowledging that the strength and courage to fight come from the Lord. This call to bless the Lord is a central theme in the song of Deborah, emphasizing the importance of giving God the glory for His mighty acts. Persons / Places / Events 1. DeborahA prophetess and judge of Israel who, along with Barak, led Israel to victory over the Canaanite army. Her song in Judges 5 celebrates this victory. 2. Princes of IsraelLeaders or tribal chiefs who played a significant role in rallying the people for battle against their oppressors. 3. Volunteers among the peopleThe men and women of Israel who willingly offered themselves to fight against the Canaanites, demonstrating courage and faith. 4. The LORDThe God of Israel, who is praised for His deliverance and faithfulness to His people. 5. CanaanitesThe oppressors of Israel during this period, led by Sisera, whom God delivered into the hands of the Israelites. Teaching Points The Importance of LeadershipGodly leaders, like the princes of Israel, are crucial in guiding and inspiring others to follow God's will. The Power of Willing ServiceThe volunteers' willingness to fight reflects the heart of true service to God, which is done out of love and devotion rather than obligation. Praise as a Response to VictoryDeborah's song reminds us to always give credit and praise to God for victories and blessings in our lives. Unity in PurposeThe collaboration between leaders and volunteers highlights the strength found in unity when God's people work together for a common cause. God's FaithfulnessThe victory over the Canaanites is a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering His people when they trust and obey Him. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the role of the "princes of Israel" in Judges 5:9 inspire us to take on leadership roles in our communities or churches? 2. In what ways can we be like the "volunteers among the people" in our service to God today? 3. How does the concept of praising God after a victory, as seen in Judges 5:9, apply to our personal experiences of triumph? 4. What are some practical ways we can foster unity and collaboration within our church or community, similar to the unity seen in Judges 5? 5. How can we rely on God's faithfulness in our current struggles, drawing parallels from the deliverance experienced by Israel in Judges 5? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 15The Song of Moses and Miriam, which, like Deborah's song, is a celebration of God's deliverance and victory over enemies. Psalm 110Speaks of the willingness of God's people to serve Him, similar to the volunteers in Judges 5:9. Romans 12:1Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, paralleling the voluntary service of the Israelites. 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 Bless, Commanders, Freely, Goes, Governors, Heart, Israel's, Lawgivers, Offered, Offering, Praise, Princes, Rulers, Themselves, Towards, Volunteers, Willing, Willingly, YourselvesDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 5:9 5091 Deborah 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 5:9 NIVJudges 5:9 NLTJudges 5:9 ESVJudges 5:9 NASBJudges 5:9 KJV
Judges 5:9 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
