Deborah the Prophetess: A Legacy of Leadership and Courage
For 40 years, she led Israel, one of the seven prophetesses over the ages, and spearheaded the fight against Jabin and Sisera. Discover 10 fascinating facts about Deborah the Prophetess.
- Deborah judged Israel after the judges Ehud ben Gera and Shamgar ben Anath, around the year 1124 BCE.
- According to the Book of Judges, she sat under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel (as explained by Jewish tradition, to avoid being alone with men), and the Israelites would come to her for judgment.
- Deborah is counted among the seven prophetesses who served the Israelite people throughout history.
- In the Bible, she's referred to as "Eshet Lapidot." Some interpret this as her husband’s name, while the sages suggest she made wicks for the Temple.
- Deborah initiated the war against Jabin, king of Hazor, and Sisera, alongside Barak ben Abinoam.
- The war was accompanied by open miracles, as described in the Song of Deborah.
- The 'Song of Deborah' is one of the ten songs recorded in the Bible.
- The song is presented in the same format as the Song of the Sea, "a brick over two bricks," resembling a brick wall's pattern.
- Deborah judged Israel for 40 years, a notably long tenure compared to other judges.
- According to tradition, Deborah was buried in "Kedesh Naphtali," in the territory of the Tribe of Naphtali.
