Old Testament
Judges 4:6
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She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, "Hasn't the LORD, the God of Israel, given you this command: 'March to Mount Tabor and take 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun with you.
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And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the LORD God of Israel commanded, saying, Go and draw toward mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun?
What Judges 4:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, calls upon Barak, a military leader, to fulfill God's command. She reminds him that the Lord has instructed him to gather an army of 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun and march to Mount Tabor. This moment is significant as it highlights the role of women in leadership and the importance of obedience to God's directives. Deborah's confidence in God's promise encourages Barak to take action against the oppressive Canaanite forces. The command to gather troops signifies a pivotal moment in Israel's history, where faith and courage are essential for victory. Barak's response to Deborah's call will set the stage for a crucial battle that will determine the fate of Israel. This verse emphasizes the need for leaders to listen to God's voice and act decisively, trusting in His guidance and support.
How to apply Judges 4:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to listen for God's guidance in our lives and to act on it with courage. Just as Deborah inspired Barak to lead, we can motivate others to follow God's calling. Trusting in God's plan can lead to significant victories in our personal and communal challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Deborah's story: Deborah Calls Barak (Judges 4:6–10)
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Deborah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Judges 4:6
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 4:6 mean?
Judges 4:6 describes Deborah, a prophetess, calling Barak to lead an army against the Canaanites, reminding him of God's command to gather 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun and march to Mount Tabor.
What is the significance of Deborah in Judges 4:6?
Deborah's role in Judges 4:6 highlights the importance of women in leadership within Israel, as she confidently directs Barak to fulfill God's command, showcasing her authority and faith.
What does the phrase 'March to Mount Tabor' signify in Judges 4:6?
The phrase 'March to Mount Tabor' signifies a strategic military move, as it represents the location where Barak is instructed to gather his forces to confront the Canaanite army, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's struggle for freedom.
How does Judges 4:6 relate to themes of faith and courage?
Judges 4:6 illustrates faith and courage as Deborah encourages Barak to trust in God's promise and take action, demonstrating that faith can empower leaders to confront challenges and achieve victory.
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