King James Version
What Does Judges 5:9 Mean?
“My heart is toward the governors of Israel, that offered themselves willingly among the people. Bless ye the LORD.”
Context
7
The inhabitants of the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel, until that I Deborah arose, that I arose a mother in Israel.
8
They chose new gods; then was war in the gates: was there a shield or spear seen among forty thousand in Israel?
9
My heart is toward the governors of Israel, that offered themselves willingly among the people. Bless ye the LORD.
10
Speak, ye that ride on white asses, ye that sit in judgment, and walk by the way. Speak: or, Meditate
11
They that are delivered from the noise of archers in the places of drawing water, there shall they rehearse the righteous acts of the LORD, even the righteous acts toward the inhabitants of his villages in Israel: then shall the people of the LORD go down to the gates. righteous: Heb. righteousnesses
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(9) **My heart is toward the governors of Israel.**—The fact that even in this extremity Israel had men (literally, *law-givers*) who were willing to brave any danger to rescue their people fills Deborah with gratitude to them and *to *God.
**Among the people.**—When the leaders moved, the people moved with them.
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 5:9 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 5:9
Judges 5:2
→2 Corinthians 8:3-4
→1 Chronicles 29:9
→2 Corinthians 8:12
→2 Corinthians 9:5
→2 Corinthians 8:17
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge