Judges 5:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Devvora exhibits a deep and genuine faith. He proclaims, ‘If I see forty thousand spears, my heart is upon the work of Israel’ (Judges 5:8-9). This reflects the command of divine law, which states, ‘If thou see a multitude of enemies, and horses, and chariots, be not afraid, for the Lord thy God will fight according to thee’ (Deuteronomy 20:1).

Prior to verse 12, the narrative unfolds the significant achievement that has taken place; this is the transformation of the nobles into leaders, while the people exhibit fervor. Therefore, exalt the Lord! Exalt the Lord, for previously, no individual had the courage or willingness to rise alone, yet now, thanks to the woman, thanks to the voice of Deborah, the people have arisen, and the leaders have been discovered. Verses 9-11 illustrate the newfound tranquility in Israel, for which they ought to offer gratitude and worship to the Lord. Verses 6-8 recount the dire conditions that Israel faced during the days of Shamgar; however, in verse 9, Deborah calls upon all people, from the highest ranks to the lowest, to give praise to Jehovah. She starts with the esteemed individuals, specifically the commanders of the army, declaring, “ye strong men, bless the Lord.”