King James Version
What Does Judges 5:18 Mean?
“Zebulun and Naphtali were a people that jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field. jeoparded: Heb. exposed to reproach”
Context
16
Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the flocks? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. For: or, In
17
Gilead abode beyond Jordan: and why did Dan remain in ships? Asher continued on the sea shore, and abode in his breaches. shore: or, port breaches: or, creeks
18
Zebulun and Naphtali were a people that jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field. jeoparded: Heb. exposed to reproach
19
The kings came and fought, then fought the kings of Canaan in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo; they took no gain of money.
20
They fought from heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sisera. courses: Heb. paths
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(18) **Jeoparded their lives.**—Comp. Judges 9:7; Isaiah 53:12. The courage of Zebulon and Naphtali is contrasted with the empty debates of Reuben, the sloth of Gilead, the cowardly selfishness of Dan and Asher.
**In the high places of the field.**—That is, on Mount Tabor. The Hebrew word is *the Meroms; *hence the Vulgate has *in regione Merome. *(Comp. Joshua 11:5; Joshua 11:7.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Judges 5:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Judges 5:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge