41 Then the sons of Israel again did evil in the sight of the Lord , after Ehud died . 2 And the Lord sold them into the hand of Jabin king of Canaan , who reigned in Hazor ; and the commander of his army was Sisera , who lived in Harosheth-hagoyim e . 3 The sons of Israel cried to the Lord ; for he had nine hundred iron chariots , and he oppressed the sons of Israel severely for twenty years .
4 Now Deborah , a prophetess , the wife of Lappidoth , was judging Israel at that time . 5 She used to sit under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim ; and the sons of Israel came up to her for judgment .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Judges 4:1-5
Commentary on Judges 4:1-3.
(Read Judges 4:1-3.)
The land had rest for eighty years, which should have confirmed them in their religion; but it made them secure, and indulge their lusts. Thus the prosperity of fools destroys them. Jabin and his general Sisera, mightily oppressed Israel. This enemy was nearer than any of the former. Israel cried unto the Lord, when distress drove them to him, and they saw no other way of relief. Those who slight God in prosperity, will find themselves under a necessity of seeking him in trouble.
Commentary on Judges 4:4-9
(Read Judges 4:4-9)
Deborah was a prophetess; one instructed in Divine knowledge by the inspiration of the Spirit of God. She judged Israel as God's mouth to them; correcting abuses, and redressing grievances. By God's direction, she ordered Barak to raise an army, and engage Jabin's forces. Barak insisted much upon her presence. Deborah promised to go with him. She would not send him where she would not go herself. Those who in God's name call others to their duty, should be ready to assist them in it. Barak values the satisfaction of his mind, and the good success of his enterprise, more than mere honour.