Deborah
Prophetess and Judge
c. 1200 BC
A prophetess and judge of Israel who summoned Barak and led Israel to victory over Sisera.
“March on, my soul; be strong!” — Judges 5:21Talk with Deborah
The story of Deborah
Deborah was a unique leader in Israel's history, serving as both a prophetess and the fourth judge during a time of Canaanite oppression. She held court under the Palm of Deborah in the hill country of Ephraim, where the people came to her for judgment and guidance. Her authority was widely recognized, making her one of the most prominent female figures in the Old Testament, providing spiritual and political leadership during a period of national crisis.
When the time came to liberate Israel from Jabin, the king of Canaan, Deborah summoned the commander Barak and gave him God's command to mobilize an army. When Barak hesitated to go without her, she agreed to accompany him but prophesied that the ultimate honor for the victory would go to a woman rather than a soldier. This prophecy was fulfilled when Jael, a Kenite woman, killed the enemy general Sisera after his army was routed by the Israelites.
After the victory, Deborah and Barak composed a magnificent song of praise, known as the Song of Deborah. This poem is considered one of the oldest pieces of literature in the Bible, celebrating the courage of the tribes that fought and the miraculous intervention of God through a sudden storm. Under Deborah's influence, the land enjoyed forty years of peace. Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, wisdom, and the ability to inspire a discouraged nation to action.
Key passages
Judges 4:1–24
Deborah commissions Barak and leads the defeat of the Canaanite army.
Judges 5:1–31
The Song of Deborah celebrates God's victory and the heroes of the battle.
Key books
- Judges
Questions you can ask
- “What did the LORD tell you about Sisera?”
- “Tell me about Barak”
- “Why did you sing the song of Judges 5?”
Common questions
Was Deborah the only female judge?
Yes, Deborah is the only woman explicitly identified as a judge and a prophetess among the leaders raised up in the Book of Judges.
What was the Song of Deborah?
It is a victory hymn that recounts the battle against Sisera, praising the tribes that joined the fight and honoring God for the victory.
Why did Barak refuse to go without Deborah?
Barak likely recognized Deborah's spiritual authority and wanted her presence as a sign of God's favor and guidance on the battlefield.