King James Version

What Does Judges 5:19 Mean?

“The kings came and fought, then fought the kings of Canaan in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo; they took no gain of money.”

Context

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

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

The kings came and fought, then fought the kings of Canaan in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo; they took no gain of money.

They fought from heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sisera. courses: Heb. paths

The river of Kishon swept them away, that ancient river, the river Kishon. O my soul, thou hast trodden down strength.

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **The kings.—**Comp. Joshua 11:1. Jabin did not stand alone. **In Taanach.**—See Judges 1:27. The word means “sandy soil.” **By the waters of Megiddo.**—The affluents of the Kishon, or the swollen waves of the river itself. There is a copious spring at *Lejjûn, *the ancient Megiddo, which in rainy seasons rapidly turns the plain into a morass (Thomson’s *Land and Book. *ch. 29). **They took no gain of money.**—Literally, *fragment of silver they did not take. *They had doubtless hoped, if not for much actual spoil, at least for ransom from the numerous captives which they expected to win, or from the gain derived by selling them into slavery.

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 5:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.