Judges 4:4
New International Version
Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time.

New Living Translation
Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet who was judging Israel at that time.

English Standard Version
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

Berean Standard Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

King James Bible
And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

New King James Version
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

New American Standard Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

NASB 1995
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

NASB 1977
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

Amplified Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

Christian Standard Bible
Deborah, a prophetess and the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Deborah, a woman who was a prophetess and the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

American Standard Version
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

Contemporary English Version
Deborah the wife of Lappidoth was a prophet and a leader of Israel during those days.

English Revised Version
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Deborah, wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet. She was the judge in Israel at that time.

Good News Translation
Now Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet, and she was serving as a judge for the Israelites at that time.

International Standard Version
Deborah, a woman, prophet, and wife of Lappidoth, was herself judging Israel during that time.

Majority Standard Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.

NET Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time.

New Heart English Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

Webster's Bible Translation
And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

World English Bible
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, judged Israel at that time.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And Deborah, a woman, a prophetess, wife of Lapidoth, she is judging Israel at that time,

Young's Literal Translation
And Deborah, a woman inspired, wife of Lapidoth, she is judging Israel at that time,

Smith's Literal Translation
And Deborah, a woman, a prophetess, wife to Lapidoth, she judged Israel in that time.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And there was at that time Debbora a prophetess the wife of Lapidoth, who judged the people,

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now there was a prophetess, Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, who judged the people in that time.

New American Bible
At that time the prophet Deborah, wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel.

New Revised Standard Version
At that time Deborah, a prophetess, wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapithor, judged Israel at that time.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the woman Debora, the Prophetess wife of Lapithor, also was judging Israel at that time
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And Debbora, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, - she judged Israel at that time.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Deborah and Barak
3Then the Israelites cried out to the LORD, because Jabin had nine hundred chariots of iron, and he had harshly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years. 4Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time. 5And she would sit under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, where the Israelites would go up to her for judgment.…

Cross References
Exodus 15:20
Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing.

2 Kings 22:14
So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District.

Luke 2:36-38
There was also a prophetess named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, who was well along in years. She had been married for seven years, / and then was a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. / Coming forward at that moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the Child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Acts 21:9
He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied.

1 Samuel 9:9
(Formerly in Israel, a man on his way to inquire of God would say, “Come, let us go to the seer.” For the prophet of today was formerly called the seer.)

2 Chronicles 34:22
So Hilkiah and those the king had designated went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District.

Isaiah 3:12
Youths oppress My people, and women rule over them. O My people, your guides mislead you; they turn you from your paths.

Micah 6:4
For I brought you up from the land of Egypt and redeemed you from the house of slavery. I sent Moses before you, as well as Aaron and Miriam.

1 Corinthians 11:5
And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for it is just as if her head were shaved.

Romans 16:1-2
I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. / Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her with anything she may need from you. For she has been a great help to many people, including me.

1 Timothy 2:12
I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; she is to remain quiet.

Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Joel 2:28-29
And afterward, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. / Even on My menservants and maidservants, I will pour out My Spirit in those days.

Philippians 4:3
Yes, and I ask you, my true yokefellow, to help these women who have contended at my side for the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.

Acts 18:26
And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.


Treasury of Scripture

And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

Exodus 15:20
And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.

2 Kings 22:14
So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her.

Nehemiah 6:14
My God, think thou upon Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and on the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.

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Deborah Deb'orah Inspired Israel Judge Judged Judging Leading Prophet Prophetess Time Wife
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Judges 4
1. Deborah and Barak deliver them from Jabin and Sisera
17. Jael kills Sisera














Now Deborah, a prophetess
Deborah is one of the few female prophets mentioned in the Bible, highlighting her unique role in a predominantly patriarchal society. Her position as a prophetess indicates that she was a spokesperson for God, receiving and delivering divine messages. This role is significant as it underscores the idea that God can choose anyone, regardless of gender, to fulfill His purposes. Other notable prophetesses in the Bible include Miriam (Exodus 15:20) and Huldah (2 Kings 22:14). Deborah's prophetic role also foreshadows the New Testament teaching that in Christ, there is neither male nor female (Galatians 3:28), emphasizing spiritual equality.

the wife of Lappidoth
The mention of Deborah as the wife of Lappidoth provides insight into her personal life, grounding her in a familial context. The name Lappidoth means "torches" or "lights," which could symbolically reflect Deborah's own role as a light and guide for Israel. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, a woman's identity was often linked to her husband, yet Deborah's leadership and prophetic role stand out independently, suggesting her significant influence and authority.

was judging Israel
Deborah's role as a judge indicates that she was a leader and decision-maker for the nation of Israel. Judges in this period were not only judicial figures but also military leaders and deliverers. Her position as a judge is particularly noteworthy because it demonstrates that God raised her up to lead His people during a time of oppression by the Canaanites. This period of the judges was characterized by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, as described in Judges 2:16-19. Deborah's leadership is a testament to God's sovereignty in choosing leaders who may defy societal norms.

at that time
The phrase "at that time" situates Deborah's judgeship during a specific period in Israel's history, marked by turmoil and oppression. This was a time when Israel was under the threat of King Jabin of Canaan and his commander Sisera, as detailed in Judges 4:2-3. The historical context is crucial for understanding the challenges Deborah faced and the significance of her leadership. Her judgeship is part of the larger narrative of the Book of Judges, which chronicles the cyclical pattern of Israel's faithfulness and rebellion, highlighting the need for righteous leadership and divine intervention.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Deborah
A prophetess and judge of Israel, Deborah is a unique figure in the Old Testament. She is one of the few female leaders mentioned in the Bible, known for her wisdom and courage. Her role as a judge indicates her leadership and spiritual authority in Israel during a time of oppression.

2. Lappidoth
Mentioned as Deborah's husband, little is known about Lappidoth. His mention highlights Deborah's marital status, which was significant in the cultural context of the time.

3. Israel
The nation of Israel was under oppression by the Canaanite king Jabin during this period. Deborah's leadership was crucial in rallying the Israelites to seek deliverance from their enemies.

4. Prophetess
Deborah's role as a prophetess signifies her ability to receive and communicate God's messages. This role was vital in guiding Israel according to God's will.

5. Judging
Deborah's position as a judge involved settling disputes and providing leadership. This role was both judicial and military, as judges often led Israel in battles against their oppressors.
Teaching Points
God's Use of Women in Leadership
Deborah's role as a judge and prophetess demonstrates that God can and does use women in significant leadership positions. This challenges cultural norms and encourages the church to recognize and support the gifts of women in ministry.

Courage and Faith in Leadership
Deborah's account is a testament to the courage and faith required to lead God's people. Her reliance on God's guidance serves as a model for leaders today to seek divine wisdom and strength.

The Importance of Spiritual Discernment
As a prophetess, Deborah's ability to discern God's will was crucial. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a deep relationship with God to discern His guidance in their lives.

Unity and Cooperation in God's Work
Deborah's collaboration with Barak in leading Israel to victory illustrates the importance of unity and cooperation among God's people. Working together in obedience to God brings about His purposes.(4) Deborah.--The name means "bee," like the Greek Melissa. The names of Jewish women were often derived from natural objects, as Rachel, "a lamb," Tamar,"a palm," &c. It has been sometimes regarded as a title given to her as a prophetess, just as the priestesses of Delphi were called Bees (Pindar, Pyth. iv. 106); and priests were called by the title Malebee (Ess?n). But the fact that Rachel's nurse (Genesis 35:8) had the same name is against this supposition, though Josephus (Antt. v., ? 5) accepts it. She had, as Cornelius a Lapide quaintly says, "a sting for foes, and honey for friends." The pronunciation Deb?rah is now so deeply-rooted in England (possibly from the Vulgate, Debbora) that it would, perhaps, be pedantic to alter it; but properly the "?" is long ?????; LXX., Deborra and Debb?ra).

A prophetess.--Literally, a woman, a prophetess; like Miriam (Exodus 15:20), Huldah (2Kings 22:14), Noadiah (Nehemiah 6:14), Anna (Luke 2:36), &c. She is the only female judge, or, indeed, female ruler of any kind in Jewish history, except the Phoenician murderess, Athaliah. She is also the only judge to whom the title "prophet" is expressly given. "Prophetess" (like the Latin Vates) implies the possession of poetic as well as of prophetic gifts (Exodus 15:20); and we see her right to such a title, both in her predictions (Judges 4:9), her lofty courage (Judges 5:7), and the splendour of her inspired song (Judges 5). She has modern parallels in the Teutonic prophetesses, Veleda and Alaurinia (Tac., Germ. 8), and Joan of Arc, the "Inspired Maid of Domremi." Among the Jews prophetesses were the exception; among the ancient Germans they were the rule. . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Now Deborah,
וּדְבוֹרָה֙ (ū·ḏə·ḇō·w·rāh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 1683: Deborah -- two Israelite women

a prophetess,
נְבִיאָ֔ה (nə·ḇî·’āh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 5031: A prophetess, inspired woman, a poetess, a, prophet's wife

the wife
אֵ֖שֶׁת (’ê·šeṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 802: Woman, wife, female

of Lappidoth,
לַפִּיד֑וֹת (lap·pî·ḏō·wṯ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3941: Lappidoth

was judging
שֹׁפְטָ֥ה (šō·p̄ə·ṭāh)
Verb - Qal - Participle - feminine singular
Strong's 8199: To judge, pronounce sentence, to vindicate, punish, to govern, to litigate

Israel
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (yiś·rā·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3478: Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc

at that
הִ֛יא (hî)
Pronoun - third person feminine singular
Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are

time.
בָּעֵ֥ת (bā·‘êṯ)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 6256: Time, now, when


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OT History: Judges 4:4 Now Deborah a prophetess the wife (Jd Judg. Jdg)
Judges 4:3
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